UlBRARY OF CONGRESS. I 

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^ [FORCE COLLECTION.] | 



UNITED STATES OP AMERICA 



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iDl'%''%^'%'^'%'* '%>'%''%''^^'%>'%''^'%>'^'%'^'*>'[I5 



M.:m 



THE 



PALL OF WARSAW; 



A TRAGEDY, 



IN FIVE ACT 



WRITTEN BY 

LEWIS FERDINAND 'lEHMANOWSKI. 



AN1VAP0 3L,IS: 

PRINTED BY GEO. S. M'KIEl^NAIV. 
1840 " 



■i^'y- 



PERSONS REPRESENTED. 



Prince Czartoryski, (pronounced Chartoreeski,) 

President of the Senate. 

Krookoa^eeatzki, - - Governor of Warsaw. 

ScHRZYNECKi, (pronowiced Skanetskl,) 

General-in-Chief of the Polish Army. 

Paskewitsh, General-in-Chief of the Russian Army. 

Count Camenski, - - - Polish Senator. 

Alexis, His Son. 

Major Rowinski. 

Rudolph, His Son. 

Peter Howeski, Farmer. 

Senators, Bishop, Priests, Polish Officers and Soldiers, 
Russian Officers and Soldiers, Citizens, Peasants, 
Tavern-keeper, Boys, Pages, Servants. 

Countess Camenski. 
Madame Rowinski. 

Pauline, Her Daughter. 

Cecille, Her Attendant. 

Ladies, Farmers' Wives, Tavern-keeper's Wife, 
Children, Servants, Travelers. 



Entered according to the Act of Congress, in'the year 1840, 

By Lewis Ferdinand Lehmanowski, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of Maryland. . 



H^iilL^Ii CDl^ '^iilB^ii'^d' 



ACT THE FIRST. 

SCENE I. — The rising of the curtain presents to vieiu a 
grand Gothic hall, luell lighted, and decorated with Po- 
lish flags. A large table in the centre, (covered ivith 
scarlet cloth, with gold fringe,) on ivhich are ivriting 
7naterials, stands before a kind of throne, or elevated 
seat; and on each side are six chairs. After a few mo- 
ments is heard a bell, and a page, in livery, appearitig 
from an inner door, opens an opposite one. Enter Major 
RowiNSKi, folloiaed by a company of Infantry, which 
he ranges in front of the door, facing it. ^^ Sentinel 
is placed at the door. After a short interval, footsteps 
are heard approaching. 

Sentinel, (advancing his bayonet) Who comes here? 
\_Answer from ivithout: "The Counsellors of Poland." — ■ 
The door is thrown open by the page who had stood in 
vmiting. Enter eleven Senators, in black cloaks, ivith 
red collars.' 

RowiNSKi. Shoulder arms! [The soldiers obey the or- 
der; and the page, having closed and bolted the door, retires 
into a recess in a remote part of the hall, while the senators 
take seats round the table.) Support arms! About face! ( The 
soldiers, in obeying this command, turn so as to face the in- 
ner door, at which^ a few moments later, enters the Presi- 



FALL OF 



DENT of the Senate, dressed in the same style, with the addi- 
tion of a star on\his breast. The Senators rise.) Open 
ranks! (llie soldiers divide, thus opening a passage,the 
ranks facing each other.) Present arms! ( The^Major raises 
the hilt of his sword to his forehead, and the President, ?<Ji7A 
a silent salutation, passes to the elevated seat — the soldiers 
presenting arms.) Shoulder arms! Close ranks! For- 
ward march! (He leads his men to the front of the table.) 
On right and left — form a half circle! (The soldiers stand 
in semi-circular order, half the number on each side of the 
senators, ivho resume their seats.) Support arms! (The 
soldiers obey.) 

President. Senators! Has any one of you news of 
peculiai interest to communicate at this absorbing crisis in 



cur national destiny^ 



1st Senator, (taking a letter from his pocket-book and 
presenting it to the President, j This letter I have received 
from Volhynia. 

Pres. (with an eager, yet dignified 7nanner, receives the 
letter, which he opens, and begins to read to himself— sud- 
denly clasping his hands together, he exclaims, with much 
animation,) Aha! have the people of that province begun to 
revolt against the tyrant? Brave! Brave! 

2d Sen. What will the Emperor say to this? 

3d Sen. He will send armies upon armies against our 
bold countrymen of Volhynia. 

Pres. Numbers will not ultimately prevail against our 
righteous cause. Heaven looks upon the contest, and re- 
members the oppressed, still standing in the majesty of de- 
termined freedom. The Angel of Death, too, is on our side 
— [reads the letter to himself, and resumes) — Yes! one hun- 
dred furious Cossacks fell before the brave band of Poles— 
of whom not one fell dead. Twelve only were wounded! 
The enemy fled in confusion before the conquering sword 
of Right, and Liberty. — But {looking round) I see not a- 
mongst you the venerable Caiiienski. Good old man! Ma- 



WARSAW. 3 

hy sorrows have furrowed his noble countenance, and the 
snows of eighty winters have fallen on his head; but his 
time-bowed form still enshrines a spirit all alive for his coun- 
try — all glowing- with the fire of youthful patriotism for Po- 
land, and for liberty. Where, at this fearful period, can our 
best counsellor linger? 

One of the Senators. He is forthcoming. I had nearly 
crossed the bridge, when I heard a parley of low and earnest 
voices. I listened, all ear, that I might know if the thoughts 
breathed forth with such energy, were of devotedness to our 
cause; or if, at this hour which the villain loves, the mid- 
night hour, given to black and murderous deeds, the hideous 
form of Treachery lurked about our city. 

Pres. Well! 

4th Sen. Directed by the sounds, my eye was arrested 
by two figures standing beneath the shadow of a large tree; 
With stilly step I stole towards the spot, and unseen my- 
self, discovered the voices to be those of Camenski, and 
his son, a student in the College of Warsaw,— his yolmgest, 
and the last hope, and only remaining prop of his ancient 
house, the high-souled Alexis. 

5th Sen. The young Alexis Camenski! I know hini 
well. — He is the pride of Warsaw, and of Poland — a noble 
youth — the hope of age^and a beautiful example of the pu- 
rest virtue to his compeers. 

4th Sen. Almost unaware to myself, I stepped behind 
the tree, and listened with breathless admiration, whilst the 
young man, with thrilling eloquence, entreated his father's 
permission fo join the ranks of the noble Skanetski. There 
was evidently a bitter struggle in the old man's hearti He 
longed,intensely,to do something for his sinking country; but 
the feelings of the father rose above those of the patriot; and 
with anguish in hig voice and manner, he besought^the yoiing 
man not to urge the sacrifice. The two older sons of Cam- 
enski fell in the last dreadful battle. 



FALL OF 



6th Sen Did the young Camenski yield to his father^ 
t)pposing feelings? 

4th Sen. With an air of filial acquiescence, strangely 
mingled with desperation of manner, he turned from him/ 
and by the movement discovered, and instantly recognised 
me. "Supplicate for me!" he exclaimed, with agonizing 
earnestness, grasping my hand — "Tell my father that I shall 
not die in the cause. 1 feel," he continued, with inexpressi- 
ble tenderness and solemnity, raising his eye to the pure 
heaven— "I/eeZ that I sliall 720t die! A silent, yet mighty 
voice, speaks in my inmost heart, and tells me that the God 
of Sabbaoth will be my shield, covering my young head 
amidst the fearful tempest of battle." The old man, insen-. 
sible to my presence, had sunk on his knees, and in that 
brief interval powerful Faith triumphed. He slowly rose, 
and with a voice, low, solemn, and of almost unearthly tone, 
he again addressed his son: — "My noble boy!" he said, 
"the voiceless prayer of my spirit has been heard — strength 
has been given to a father's feeble heart, and I resign you 
to your country and your God! And now go with me to 
the Senate, and I will present to our generous Prince, and 
to struggling, bleeding Poland a noble offering."— At this 
moment, fearful that the sight of a third person would a- 
wake to renewed anguish the old mar 's feelings, I glid- 
ed from the spot. Camenski, with his son, will soon be 
here. 

Pres. Does he know the watchword and the response 
of the night? A special and urgent message from his coun- 
tess called him away, I remember, before it was given out, at 
the close of our conference, last night. 

4th Sen. Yes^-^^Liberty or Death! ^^ I breathed into 
the ear of his son as I left them, and I directed the sentinel, 
at the door of the anti-room, to admit them instantly on 
their arrival — [voices just perceivable at the door.) They 
Come! — (Three low taps at the door.) 

Pres. It is the appointed signal — Soldier! give the word.- 



WARSAW, 



(Watchman at the door within the Saloon, in a manly 
deep voice:) "Liberty!" — [reply from without in a clear 
and youthful, yet manly voice:) "or Death!" 

Pres. Soldier unclose the door — [bolt drawti and door 
cautiously opened. Enter Camenski, a very old man, 
wearing about his dress some unostentatious, yet signifi- 
cant tokens of his high standing; folloived by Alexis in 
the dress of a student. The door instantly re-closed and se- 
cured. Senators rise and bow with reverence. Presi- 
dent, meeting Camenski with an air of cordial respect.) 
Welcome, venerable and beloved Camenski. — Welcome to 
our secret council. — Is this your son, of whom Fame has 
given so fair a report? 

Cam. Yes, my prince. In the selfishness of parental feel- 
ing, I have kept back that which belonged to my country, 
and have laid a yoke upon a free and generous spirit, strug- 
gling to go forth in her defence, I repent me of the wrong, 
and have come, with my self-devoted boy, the jor^V/e, and the 
last hope of an old man. I have brought him hither, my 
prince, that in your presence, and in that of these noble 
men, I, and the partner of my life, may in him, give our 
all to Poland! 

Pres. Your generous Countess!— does she, too, denying 
the strong and tender claims of a mother's love, give her 
only son to Poland, in this dark hour of her tribulation and 
her peril? Noble woman! with such beings to, watch over 
our rights, and to pray for our success, how can we des- 
pond? 

Cam. Yes! at the moment when powerful conviction of 
duty, and 'ardent patriotism, triumphed over the deep ten- 
derness of woman, in her heart, she sent for me, in haste, 
fearful of again wavering, that in my presence she might 
bind herself to the sacrifice. It was for this that I was last 
night called hence. Since then my spirit has had a fearful 
struggle, but Poland, mighty m her deep wrongs, has at 
length conquered! And now approach, my boy, and pledge" 



your whole being, body and soul, to our j^lorioiis cause!— 
(Alexis approaching, hetids on one knee before the Presid- 
ent. — Camenski, with clasped hands, keeps his eye fixed 
upward, while Alexis speaks. 

Alex. Illustrious and beloved prince! — and ye noble sen- 
ators! (looking round onthe senators,) — guardians and advo-. 
cates of our dear land! witness and receive for her the prom- 
ise of a devoted heart. Witness for me, [ivith solemnity of 
voice and manner, looking upward,) witness for me, min- 
istering spirits of Heaven, that I give my self wholly to my 
country, Poland ! in life, and in death, I am thine! 

Cam. (After a pause, solemnly laying his hand on th& 
head of his son) — My son ! — now doubly mine! — the bles- 
sing of thy Father's God rest upon thee, and may strength 
from above nerve thy young arm for the contest! 

[The Senate room here closed from view by a change of 

scene. 
SCENE IL — A wood yiear Warsaw, Enter the Gov- 
ernor, in a rich military costume, with a white plume, 
a sword, and a star on his breast. He walks, musi?igly, 
with an appearance of displeasure, a few moments; 
then speaks. 

Gov. Is it come to this? What! does the senate dare to o- 
verlook me? — dare to say that in military skill I am inferior 
to Skanetski? — he! — a boyl — a strippling compared with 

me! brave, to be sure — who doubts that? — but considered 

my equal ! — nay, placed above me! The senate shall re- 
member this! [Exit Governor, /ro??2 the opposite side. 
Enter General Skanetski, disguised as a peasant. After 
a few turns, ivith a meditative air, he seats hiynselfon the 
trunk of a fallen tree, in an attitude of melancholy con- 
templation, and at length speaks. 

General. Poland ! Poland ! can the world gaze unmov- 
ed upon thy agonizing struggles! Can nations who have 
raised to heaven the song of liberty mark thy cruel wrongs, 
and, not curse the oppressors? — and not raise a hand to re- 



f 

WARSAW. d 

dress those wrons:s ! — And this rumor — if true — how shame- 
ful ! — that arms and ammunition, on their way from Saxony, 
should be taken by order of the Prussian government, and 
their faithful conductor imprisoned !— And how strange that 
I have received no information from France! That venerable 
champion oi liberty to whose regard I presented our suffer- 
ing cause, knows the deep worth of that cause. — Oh that 
this single arm could do the deed! How gladly would 
I lay down my life for thee, my beloved and bleeding coun- 
try! — But let not despair paralyze my mind. Poland is not 
yetlost.-^ — During a brief space of rest from horror and blood- 
shed, I have betaken myself to this deep solitude, that my 
thoughts for her dear cause may not be distracted by the 
sound and the sight of her woes. — But who comes ? {look- 
ing found at the sound af approaching steps) — a student t 

Enter Alexis. 
\_0n seeing the General, he pauses y and regards him 
with a calm, yet scrutinizing look, returned by Ska- 

NETSKI.] 

Gen. Young man, whom do you seek? 

Alex. A man brave and good, who, as I was told, bent 
his steps in the direction of this forest. 

Gen. What can you have to say to a bfave man? You 
wear the garb of peace. 

Alex. So do you, sir, but I doubt your seeming. Your 
eye, and your lofty bearing, give the lie to your peasant's 
dress — {looking cautiously round,) May I trust yOu? 

Gen. As ^friend, or a/oe to Poland? 

Alex. [Half unsheathing a sivord, which his studenfs'^ 
garb had concealed, and making a slight movement to- 
wards an attitude of attack,) As a friend to Poland, sir^ 
Perish her enemies! 

Gen. {Rising, extends his hand.) — Welcome then, rio^ 
ble youth, whoever you may be. Have you come to tell 
me that your heart, like mine, is bleeding for Poland ? 

Alex. (^Cordially giving his hand,) There is that M 
2 



10 FALL OF 

your face which tells me I may trust you. I seek Skanet- 
ski. 

Gen. Behold him then ! (throwing off his farmer'' s 
coat and showing his military dress and the star on his 
breast.) 

Alex. Am I indeed so fortunate as to have found you ! 
Is it possible ! General ! allow me to say that you are Po- 
land's Star of hope ! — The young men of our University, one 
and all, long to follow your guidance. I came but now, 
from the Senate. This letter from the noble Chartoreeskee, 
(presenting a letter,) will tell you how the heart of Ca- 
menski's son feels for Poland. 

Gen. Ha ! the son of that great and good man ! (looks 
at him a moment tvith kindness and admiration; then 
opens the letter and reads rapidly to himself — ) Noble 
youth ! come to my arms. This letter informs me that you 
will leave even your aged father, to give your youth, and 
your blood, to your perishing country ! — (embracing him) 
Come with me, and I will array you in a garb befitting 
your noble and ardent spirit, and present you to my army, 
as a brother in arms, — with them, a freeman in heart, de- 
termined to live, or die, with Poland. — Come. 

Alex. General, be pleased first to read this letter, (ta- 
king another from his dress,) It was directed to the care 
of the President Chartoreeskee, and was brought to him, I 
believe, by a French Courier. 

Gen. ( With a very animated 7nanner he takes the letter, 
unseals, and reads it, with a countenance brightening with 
joy; then, his eyes raised to Heaven, speaks:) Yes! I 
will regard this word of encouragement, from Freedom's 
beloved Apostle, as a happy omen in the day of our adver- 
sity, even should the excellent and brave writer, never re- 
alize his hope of a correspondent national act. Hear what 
he writes with his own Ijand : * 'Chief of the Poles ! con- 
tinue your noble deeds. If possible, my voice shall be 
heard, and if I have influence in the councils of this nation 



WARSAW. 11 

'—you shall be assisted witli money, arms, and it may be, 
men, ready and brave in battle for the riglit. My own soul 
yearns to succour you. Go on in your path of glory.-— 
Heaven speed you ! LAFAYETTE." 

This indeed is promising. Now my friend for Warsaw. 

[^Exeunt, 
SCENE III. — City of Warsatv. Streets, houses, church' 
es, prison, hospital, and arched toll-gate visible at a dis- 
tance. Parade ground in front — drums beat and sound 
of the trumpet is heard. A company of infantry ap- 
pears commanded by Captain Rowinski. At the in- 
stant a beautifnl girl (Pauline) comes forward from a 
gate and unfurls a standard—bearing this inscription: 
"Poland yet lives!" — and addresses the Captain:— 
Pauline. Brother ! I have been watching for you and 
your noble volunteers, and have prepared this little offering 
for my country. I know it will fall only when Poland dies! 
(Presents the standard, ivhich is received with a respectful 
enthusiasm. Music strikes up, '•'-Unfurl the bright Ban- 
ner, Sfc.) 

Enter General Skanetski and Alexis, from the opposite 
side. — Captain Rowinski commands his soldiers to pre- 
sent arms; then raising his sivord, salutes the General, 
who returns the salutation by raising, slightly, his hat, 
Rowinski. (after exchanging with Alexis a cordial 
glance of recognition,) General ! I have the honor of pre- 
senting before you a company from the brave peasantry of 
Volhynia — who have so nobly signalized themselves in the 
late contest.. They have generously provided themselves 
with arms, ammunition and uniform. I was about conduct- 
ing them to head-quarters, expecting to find you there. 

General. I am on my way thither — but before I pro- 
ceed let me present to your regard the young count Camen- 
ski. He will soon appear on the field as a brother in arms. 
Row. Ye^, (the young men cordially shake hands,) I 
have long been aware of the feelings and intentions of this 



1^ FALL OV 

ardent friend ofour cause.'— From childhood we have had but 
one soul. 

Gen. Then you are known to each other ?— well ! Po- 
land hopes much from her young and daring sons. (Citi" 
zensfrom different quarters appear, followed by tvomen 
and children. Jifter a feio moments the General again 
speaks.) — Soldiers and citizens ' the time has arrived when 
we must dare, or die 1 Our enemy is strong, and aims to 
oppress and to destroy us — but we — we fight for Liberty — 
our birth-right! Let none strive for the selfishness of pow- 
er ! — You can now choose to die, — (if die you must in the 
deadly strife,) either to die, Freemen, or to live, Slaves'. — 
but I know your decision is already made. The world 
shall yet see, — aye ! and the tyrant shall yet feel that all 
true Poles will strive for independence — even unto death 1 
There is hope of assistarce from France — but let us not 
pause till that hope may be accomplished. Strike ahead 
my brave fellows ! I never rely on promise. Action is my 
motto. We wdl meet those of whom we cannot, and will 
not, ask indulgence, and should we even strive in vain— 
we shall never regret the blood shed for our country. Bro- 
thers-in-arms ! I see that you are ready. May harmony 
and closest union prevail with us — for we fight for one sa- 
cred cause — and should we even ^ie— it is for Poland ! — 
(« dragoon on horseback appears, and alighting, presents 
a letter to the General, who opens and reads to himself 
with an animated and pleased look, then addresses the 
dragoon,) "Tell Malachowski I wish him to have his 
troops ready to-morrow morning at sunrise. (Dragoon 
bows, mounts his horse and departs.) Yes, my friends, 
I have ten thousand men waiting for me to meet them in 
the forest to-morrow morning — (many of the by-standing 
men come forward, and respectfully, but decidedly ask of 
the General, arms — "Give us arms" — (one of them, ad- 
vancing a few steps nearer the General, "Sir! give to 
these brave men, to all of us — arms ! — We will fight like 



WARSAW. 13 

Poles for you — for our country — for our wives and chil- 
dren.") 

Gen. Yes ! my noble hearts, I will provide for you. — 
Meet me at the Magazine in two hours.— (All '■''Hurra for 
our noble chief y) 

Captain, you will now proceed to head-quarters'. I 
wil) be with yoU directly. Captain makes a salute to the 
Gener A.L-comp any exeunt in martial order. Music, Brace's 
Address. Citizens follow — Ceneual and Alexis look after 
them a few moments, then ivithdraw in the same direction, 
and at the moment the Governor appears from a side 
street. He stops and looks after the General with an ex- 
pression of deadly malice — -then in a menacing attitude 
fiercely shakes his hand, pointing to the retiring figures, 
and exclaims, tvith half suppressed rage: "I hate you!" 
He turns into another street and disappears. After a short 
interval, young voices are heard singing the folloiving 
words, first at a distance— becoming gradually clearer:) 
Tune — ''Then let the trumpet sound.^^ 

Our country must he free! 

Our country must he free! 

Our gallant lancers forward rush, 

And strike for liberty. 

And should they strive in vain, 

Upon the battle plain, 

It is for her — our country dear — • 

For her they will be slain. 

Enter a dozen, or tiventy boys, some in the dress of citi- 
zens^ sons — others in that of the peasantry. As they 
cross the stage and disappear, in the direction ivhich had 
been taken by the Gen eral, their songisfepeated. 
Our country must be/rse.' &c. . , 
, [^The voices, after the disappearance of the boys, is fol- 
lowed by instrumental music, playing the same iune.'] 
3 



ii FALL OF 

Eater Caplala Row ins ki aad Alexis, hi the Polish uni- 
form. 

Alex. And now Rudolph, — -dear companion of my 
school-boy days, we have assumed the garb of the war- 
rior — let us go forth, as men, to the noble strife. — But how 
is your lovely sister ? is she willing to resign lier father, and 
her brother to the cruel probabilities of war? 

Run. Her firm heat, though agonized with grief, is such 
as becomes a daughter of Poland. — But Alexis ! I know that 
you would ask another question. — Her deathly paleness 
iDCtrayed the fearful struggle between duty, and affection, 
when she learned that you, too, were to be exposed to the 
sword of the enemy. 

Alex. (With tender animation.) Angelic girl! — but 
you surprise me Rudolph. Could Paul.ne regard me should 
I sit still — and unmoved behold the detestable tyrant tramp- 
ling Poland in the dust? 

RuD. She appreciates your noble feelings. Her affi- 
anced lover is dearer — more honored for his lofty patriotism ; 
but her devoted heart trembles for the result. Well do I 
know that heart. Should you fail before the foe — even if 
Poland should obtain the victory — I know that she would 
walk in the desolation of perpetual widowhood. — Pauline 
Mves but for you. 

■ Alex. Sweet soul! I will strive, with double energy, 
to deserve her generous affection — and if God be with us, 
Poland will yet be free. Come friend and brother — I long 
to join the army! — In such a cause we should not lose an 
instant. 

RuD. First, for a few short moments, I must see ray 
mother, and receive her parting benediction. — O ! sweet and 
s-acred is a mother's blessing! — Pauline, too, will feel a 
melancholy joy in hearing of you from me. Go on to the 
apponited rendezvous — I will follow you forthwith, and we 
will be among the first to meet the common foe. 

\_Exeuntfrom opposite sides of the stage.~\ 



WARSAW. 15 

SCENE IV. — A village^ lolth church and steeple. Here^ 

and there, country seals. The time sunrise. Several 

farmers, with their farming instruments, come out of 

their houses, evidently prepared to commence their daily 

labor. Two of them meet, 

Peter. Good mornino; neighbor. 

The other Peasant. Ah my good Peter — how is the 
day with you? 

Peter. Bad' enough, to my mind. I could not sleep 
last night for thinking that we shall soon be compelled to 
leave ihe plough, and take the sword. But let the time 
come when it will, Peter Hov/eski is willing to do his part. 

The other Peasant. Well said my boy! — so am I too. — ., 
I tell you what, Peter- — we had better provide for our wives 
and children, to make them comfortable, and join the army 
at once. What is this sneaking along from day to day like 
dogs of cowards? Why not come out like men, as we should 
be? Down with the tyrant — and then, walk without fear, 
and eat our bread in peace. 

. Peter. That'sright, brave one. Peter Howeski thought 
of all this long ago. — Here comrades, (to a group of farm- 
ers ahead,) brother farmers, I ssy, (raising his voice.—' 
They turn round, and he continues to his companion.) 
Let us spur them up to brave deeds. (They both quicken 
their pace and come up to the others, hut as Peter begins 
ivith "I say good neighbors," his attention seems arrested 
by some object at a distance.) — But what do I see? — (they 
all look in that direction,)-— The enemy I— (All fixed to tltB 
spot ivith surprise.) 
Enter Soldiers, with an officer in the Russian uyiiformo 

Officer. Rebels ! lay down your tools and follow; us^ 
to the prison. (Peter advances tn front of his comrades, 
and stands ivith an air of defiance.) I well know the mu- 
tinous, rebellious spirit of the Polish peasantry. — Go on, 
fellows, to prison. 

Peter. [Raising a crowbar or pickaxe.) Not yet. — p 



16 FALL OF 

We are hut few, and only farmers. You are dressed like 
soldiers. We have/ree hearts. You are but the servants 
of a tyrant ! — 

Officer. (In a rage.) Seize the rebel. Drag him to 
prison. — To-morrow morning he shall be hung up in the pre- 
sence of our army, and then we'll see what his courage is 
made of. 

The Peasant. (Peter^s friend, advancing with his 
pitchfork raised.) If he were a Russian he would lose his 
courage. — Bad ones fear death — but thank Heaven he is a 
Pole. So am / — >and he that dares to touch him is a dead 
man. 

Officer. Soldiers do your duty — take them both. — 
[Soldiers approach. Peter and his friend resist. The 
other peas airts join them — blows are given, and several sol- 
diers fall wounded. Peter is at length seized, and his friend 
and the other farmers, defend themselves f^om the soldiers, 
who are endeavoring to take them. Ji girl often or twelve 
years, peeps from the door of a hut, and seeing Peter strug- 
gling betiveen two powerful men, screams "My father' my 
father! — mother come," — Peter's wife runs to the door 
'—'looks a moment — then rushing forward, utters exclama^ 
tions of distraction and despair. At the same moment a 
peasant' s wife appears at the door of another hut, and after 
one look out, runs to the church and rings the bell with all 
her might. Peter is heard to say in the struggle, "Do you 
think because you have taken a poor peasant, that the Poles 
will have less courage to fight against such a tyrant ? — ha, ha, 
you don't know the Poles.") 

Officer. Drag the lellow off. [Peter's wife ivrings 
her hands in agony — the sound of the bell has now alarm- 
ed other villagers — a few farmers come out ivith muskets, 
but seem fearful to discharge them, lest they should wound 
some of the farmers— excepting in one or two instances, 
where a soldier is shot down. The off.cir makes a thrust 
at Peter loith his sword. A woman a moment before hav- 



WARSAW* It 

ing rUshedfrom one of the houses ivith a pair of fire tongs ^ 
with them knocks the arm of the officer^ ivho drops the 
sword. Peter at that instant freeing himself from those 
who held hiin, takes up the sword quick, loields it vigor- 
ously, faces the officer, and exclaims: "Now you are my 
prisoner!" The soldiers fight — Peter, at length desper- 
ately wounded, falls. — His wife screaming "My husband!" 
with phrenzied courage, seizes the sword from his hand 
and rushes upon the soldiers. — One or more is seen to 
fall before her.— All is confusion.— Cries of "Help ! help !" 
— Suddenly a drum is heard. Alexis appears dt the head 
of a company of Polish Infantry. They surround the 
Russians, who throw down their arms.) 

[Cur tain falls i 



ACT THE SECOND. 

SCENE I. — Jl dressing room. — Madame Rowinski, rich^ 

ly dressed, with her daughter Pauline, seated on a sofa. 

Madame Rowinski. Pauline, my dear, go inquire if 
hews have arrived. — I long for tidings — and yet I dread 
them. 

Pauline. Yes mother — ^and I will return instantly. — ^ 
(Exit Pauline — Madame Rowinski audibly sighing, leans 
on her hand. — Pauline soon returns with a printed paper 
in her hand^ and with an air of trepidation speaks :) — > 
Here, dear mother, is a bulletin just printed by order of Prince 
Chartoreeski, and sent round for the information of the 
citizens.— I am afraid to read, for by a glance I saw that it 
tells of blood! — ^O ! my mother ! 

Madame Row. Be firm ray child ! — Let me read. — Pa- 
tience, and FAITH, must fortify our hearts. — (Reads aloud.) 
— A battle has taken place near Ostralenka — Geileral Ska- 
hetski attacked the enemy, and was victorious,— -Of the Ras= 
4 



18 FALL OF 

sians, five tliousaiul were killed, six liundred wounded, and 
two thousand taken prisoners. — Oi" the Poles, five hundred 
were slain, and eio;ht hundred wounded. Amongst the for- • 
mer were some ot]icevs,-( She v^eeps.J-De-dr Poland! much 
do we sacrifice to our love for thee — but not too much — 

Pau. (With tears.) To know that so many of our no- 
ble countrymen have fallen ! and that should Poland even 
ultimately prove victorious, those brave patriots are dead — 
dead! and witness not the liberty, and the happiness, pur- 
chased with their blood! 

Madame Row. My Pauline ! for this I feel as you feel — 
but is it better that«// should be slaves, than that S07ne 07ily 
should he free? Dear as my own vital life, are your father, 
Rudolph, and that son of my affection — your Alexis, — but 
Duty called them to the field, and should they fall in the 
good cause — our hearts, though bleeding at every pore, 
should resign their hopes calmly, — if possible, thankfully. 
Pait. O mother ! — Should we lose them ! — but (start- 
ing up,) here comes a letter. — How dreadful are fear and 
suspense ! 

Enter Servant loith a letter — ho7vs and approaches. 
Servant. (Presenting the letter.) Brought by a sol- 
dier, Madame. — [Boivs and unthdraios.) 

Madame Row. (Hastily breaking the seal, and glan- 
cing at the signature.) Ah ! from Alexis ! — 

Pau. (TVith trembling animation.) Dear mother! what 
does he say?~(/ooA^5 at the letter over her mother's shoul- 
der,)— Fiay excuse me my moiliev,— (retiring a little as she 
speaks.) 

Madame Row. Yes, my love — We are both weary of 
suspense — read you, and I will listen. (Pauline takes the 
letter and ivith a hurried manner reads aloud.) Dearest 
Madame ! — This will be conveyed to you by a soldier — one 
of the escort employed to attend the wounded to the Hospi- 
tal in Warsaw, as it was deemed prudent to remove them 
to a good distance from possible sudden danger. — We at- 



WARSAW. 19 

tacked Ostralenka three times, and as often were repulsed. 
— At the fourth attack the place was o?Y?^s.-— The enemy- 
fled before us.— Your husband, who commanded the right 
wing, though much fatigued, is animated, and thankful for 
the victory. — Rudolph is still in pursuit of the enemy. — He 
commanded the Lancers. — We took '200 cannon. — The foe 
must see, and feel, that our determination to be free will be 
resigned but with life. — -I need not speak to you of Pauline ! 
Dearest Madame ! you know my heart ! — Let her be your 
guardian, as we are, and strive to be, for you all. To my 
revered parents, I know you will give early information of 
this letter. — O ! tell them that their devoted son yet lives, in 
the hope to exterminate our common foe. — Ever yours, 

ALEXIS. 

Madame Row. Bless the brave boy ! 

Pau. (Looking upivard, as she breathes a deeply drawn 
sigh of joy and gratitude.) What a relief to our i3urdened 
hearts! — My father! — Rudolph! — Alexis! all living and 
ivelll — But this is selfish joy. — Alas! for the widowed and 
orphan ones! — But sweet mother! shall we not instantly 
send the good tidings of their young hero, to the venerable 
Count and Countess Camenski ? 

Madame Row. Certainly — certainly love.— Give me the 
letter, and ring for Cecille.- — [She takes the letter from 
Pauline — who rings the bell, ivhich is ansivered by her 
attendant. — In the meantime Madame Rowinski goes to a 
small writing desk and is busily engaged in enclosing, 
and directing the letter, which, when she has finished, she 
gives to CECiLLE.)--Send this immediately, with my love, to 
the Countess Camenski, and bid the messenger say, ere she 
opens it, that it contains glad news. 

Cecille. [With a curtesy and a look of benevolent de- 
light.) — With your permission, my lady, I wdl take it to 
her myself, and I know that it will then be conducted 
quickly, and faithfully. 

Madame Row, Good girl— ^you have my leave.— (Ce- 



30 FALL OF 

ciLLE receives ths letter and withdraws.) — Now, dearest 
child, go to your room, and sleep, if you can. — I will try to 
compose myself here. Watching, and anxiety, have made 
us both sick. We must refresh ourselves for the perform- 
ance of such duties as may arise in this day of our country's 
adversity. 

Pau. (Kissing her mother.) Bless you, sweet mother ! 
it is a kind and a right thought, and I will do'your bidding; 
but first let me see you comfortable. — [She arranges ele- 
gant cushions for her mother^ s head, gently assists her to 
a reclining posture, and again kisses her. — There, my 
own mother ! — sleep, and may angels guard you ! 

Madame Row. Bless thee my daughter! — Exit Pau^ 
LINE — at the door turning an affectionate look on her mo 
ther, who smiles and kisses her hand to her. 
SCENE II. — Russian Camp, Tents, Soldiers, Officers, 

General. 

Russian General. [To his Aid.) See if an express 2i^' 
proaches.— (jE^a:?«7 Aid. — The General walking thoughtful' 
ly a few moments, looks at his watch.)— Heigh ho \--{cid- 
dresses some officers near him.) — By the last advice, the 
Emperor was about to send twelve regiments as a re-inforce- 
ment. — We must soon receive news. —(T'rz/m/^e^ sounds. — 
Ha! an express, I doubt not. — (Re-enter Aid, followed by 
a Soldier, aieariyig the uniform of the Russian cavalry, 
and flushed with haste.) 

Aid. Tidings, General ! 

Gen. (To Soldier.) Speak! 

Soldier. [Breathing hard, from rapid riding.) Gen-* 
eral ! — Our van-guard retreats at all quarters ! 

Gen. CoAvards !~vile cowards !-why retreat? — Shame ! 
— shame !— from that handful of rebels too ! / must take 
the command,— Strike for attack [—[Exit all in military 
order.) 
SCENE III. — An elegant parlour.— Old Count Camenski, 

with his head uncovered, his hair as ivhite as snow, and 



WARSAW. 21 

his form bowed with age, loalks the room. — The Coun- 
tess Camenski, a middle aged, but dignified and beau- 
tiful woman, sits by a table, onivkich she half leans, re- 
garding her husband with looks full of sympathizing af- 
fection. — Jit length she speaks:) 

Countess. Why— why, my dearest lord, will you thus 
afflict yourself and me ? Did not our son belong to his 
country — and do you repent that we yielded to her that 
which was her own ? — Poor bleeding Poland ! [she weepSi 
but by an effort, suppresses and hastily dries her tears.) 

Count Camenski. (Striking his breast.) Woe is me! 
for my last, my beautiful, my brave one! — Countess Emi- 
lia !— I had a dream — (ivringing his hands in agony, and 
raising his eyes with a despairing look,) — such a dream I 
—The beautiful head of our son was crushed — crushed I 
beneath the triumphant chariot of the tyrant ! — The tramp- 
ling hoofs of mighty war horses pressed out the life of our 
child! — he was mangled — dead I — Oh! my brain reeled — 
and then my soul sunk as it were mto the sleep of death ! — 
And u.g3.in.—>again I saw him — haggard — wretched — Home- 
less — a desolate stranger in a strange land! — Oh Emilia! 
Y our woman^s heart is firm amidst all its sorrow, and its ap- 
prehension, whilst /, who have buffeted the storms of four- 
score years, am utterly subdued by this fearful vision of the 
night. 

CouN. Revered and beloved lord! — Let faith prevail,- 
and be you comforted. — I, too, had a dream! (the old Count 
stops before the Countess, and earnestly gazes at her face.) 
You should have heard it before, but that I thought the name 
of dur son might awaken grief. — Methought Poland had 
fallen — and deep was our sorrow ! — No tidings of our Alexis 
had reached us, and overwhelming was our fear. — There 
was a short and dreadful interval of palpable darkness — then 
pure and beautiful daylight suddenly appeared, and gradu- 
ally stole around us. — Soft and balmy air, like the breathing 
of hope, revived our hearts.— We stood on an emiAeri^^', 
5 



29 FALL OF 

and beheld unbroken ranks of young and noble warriors, 
pass before us, led on by our own brave boy — and my eye, 
divested of its mortality, saw that which others could not 
see, — An angel, bright and beautifid beyond the imaginings 
of mortal mind, — borne in its lightness and glory on the 
pure air, moved on with our child, holding above his head a 
radiant shield. — There was a thrill of grateful joy at my 
heart. — Slowly the lovely vision faded, and preenstly I heard 
the shout of victory, and I saw our country, rising in glory 
from the ashes of her desolation ;--and the loved voice of our 
Alexis, uttered to my ear, like the song of Heaven.— Poland ' 

IS FREE ! 

Count Cam. [JFith a manner indicating calmer and 
less painful feeling.) My Emilia '.—-Heaven grant that this 
may prove to have been the holy voice of prophecy ! — My 
30,ul shall wait in patience ! 

Enter a Servant. 

Servant. My lady, a young woman from Madame 
Rowinski, asks admittance. 

Coun. Conduct her to me. — [Exit Servant, in a mo- 
ment returning to the door, and showing in Cecille, who 
with a respectful and cheerful air advances. 

Count Ca3I. (In a voice of trepidation.) Bring you 
tidings ? 

Cecille. Yes, nohlelovCi, good news. -{She presents the 
letter to the Countess, ivho ivith suppressed eagerness re- 
ceives it.) My lady directed it might be said to you, Ma- 
dame, before you open the letter, that it bears glad words. 

Coun. Dear, considerate friend! thus to save me from 
even a moment of fear. — But my good girl, I see that you 
have walked rapidly: — rest you iDcfore you return. 

Cec. Thank you Madame.— ('/S'/ie vnthdraws.) 

(Camenski betrays impatience.) 

Coun. (Hastily opoiing the letter, and joyfidly hand- 
ing it to her husband f) — Thank Heaven! he is safe.' 

Count Cam. {Eagerly taking, but instantly returning 



WARSAW. 23 

it,) — Read it to me, Einiiia. — Joy has made you forget that 
my poor eyes are dim. 

CouN. (Looking a moment at the letter.) Alexis lives ! 
.^— in health.' — and victory is on our side J — {The old man 
kneels, and hotvs his head in silent gratitude.) 

CouN. (Looking upward.) Thanks! 

\_Cur tain falls. 



ACT THE THIRD. 

SCENE I. — City of Warsaw again. — ^B hospital seen^ 
before which stands, or walks, a sentinel, and one be- 
fore the prison, — the words arsenal, and hospital, ap- 
pearing each on its respective building. — .^ magazine, 
the lower door of which is operi, and soldiers are carry- 
ing inpoiadcr kegs. — Wounded soldiers are brought on 
biers to the hospital. — Music. — The cries of the tvound- 
ed in the battle of Prague. 
Enter Countess Camenski, with a Servant, both bring- 
ing provisions, ^"C. to the hospital. — She stops and 
speaks to the sentinel 

Countess Camenski. Have they brought many wounded? 

Soldier. (Bowing.) Oh yes Madame ! — xAnd the brave 

and noble Major Rowinski, by a random shot lost an arm 

when the battle was over, and the express had been sent off. 

— He has just arrived. 

Coun. Alas! is it indeed so! — Good man! — Gallant 
soldier ! — What will my poor friend ? — What will Pauline 
— noble, affectionate child ! say to this ?- — when she sees her 
beloved fatlier — mutilated!— maimed! — Oh dreadful ! — [She 
enters the hospital, iviping her tears, but the next lyioment 
re-appears at the door, addressing her attendant,) — Take 
these things in, and inquire particularly respecting Major 
Rowinski's state. — I bethink me that I must return instant- 



24 FALL OF 

ly and prepare my lord to hear of this disaster of his friend. 
"—[She passes off the stage — servant enters the hospital. 
Enter Madame Rowinski, and Pauline, ivith Cecille, 

and two other female servants, bearing bandages and 

comforts for the wounded. — They enter the hospital. 

Directly Pauline runs out, wringing her hands in 
an agony of grief , shocked by the sudden knowledge of her 
father^ s disaster, and crying: — Oh my father! — Oh my 
mother ! — my brother ! — my Alexis ! — my country! ! — Can 
this be endured ? — well ! — well ! — {looking up with afrantic 
air.y-ii it for thee Heaven !— for thee sweet Poland!--0! if this 
woman^s arm were worthy of this woman^s heart.' — (pau- 
ses a moment.)^— Yes ! — I would go, — {her frantic manner 
changed to one of energy and firmness.) — Bitter trials will 
nerve the feeble spirit to strong endurance! — How gladly 
would I array this woman's form m the gallant costume of 
my brave countrymen, and go — onward — onward! till Po- 
land should rise, beautiful — glorious— -/*ree — free! ha! ha! 
ha ! — [her feelings ivrought up to hysterical excitement.) 
—I go ! — [As she is about to make her exit, ivith a light and 
rapid step, her attention is arrested by the distant sound 
ofmarticd music. — She looks earnestly in the direction. — 
Music approaches. — Women, children, and soine old men 
come from the houses and eagerly gaze.) 
Enter AlexIs, with Polish soldiers, conducting Russian 

prisoners. 

Pauline . ( Stepping aside with a half-suppressed excla- 
mation.) My own — my brave one ! 

(Some of the bystanders speak.) — Here they come.-— 
Yes, those men are prisoners.^-Let them now feel what 
captivity is — it is now their turn — dastard minions of a ty- 
rant! — There is the brave young leader — bless him!^ — bless 
him! 

Alexis. Lieutenant! — These are prisoners of war.—- 
Place them in security, but remember they are to be treated 
with the respect and humanity due to brave, though mis- 



WARSAW. 25 

guided men,— "( The Polish soldiers, with prisoners in the 
centre, move towards the prison, at the entrance ofivhich 
the soldiers remain luithout, while the prisoners pass 
in, led by the Officer to whom Alexis had given ih6 
direction. — Alexis regards all that passes. — -After a short 
interval the officer re-appears from the prison, and leads 
the soldiers back towards Alexis. — Bystanders gradu' 
ally vjithdraw.) , 

Officer. (^T^o Alexis.) Captain, the prisoners are se- 
cured. 

Alex. With every essential accommodation? 

Off. Yes, captain, 

Alex. Then return you all to the camp. — I shall now 
visit the wounded. — (Exeunt Officer and soldiers. — 
Alexis turns towards the hospital and looking on one side 
observes Pauline, and rapidly hastens towards her.— She 
meets him. 

Pau. Alexis ! 

Alex. My Pauline ! 

Pau. You are welcome — welcome ! — Thanks — thanks t 
for your safe return. — Most painful have been my fears ! 

Alex. Blessings on you dearest one ! — I live yet for 
you. — How are my dear parents?— How is your angel mo- 
ther? 

Pau. Still on the earth to bless you. — But alas !— 
alas! — my poor father!— ('sAe weeps,)— M^imeA and suffer- 
ing! — I could not speak to him! My poor mother is with 
him! — Alexis! you know of this dreadful misfortune. 

Alex. Y'es, my Pauline, I know all; arid my inmost 
soul feels the wound. — But let us be thankful that he yet 
lives, to give the energies of his faithful and unbi'oken spirit, 
in council and in blessing to his country.— We mUst consi- 
der, dear Pauline, that every thing in this world is gain or 
loss. — We strive for gain or success, but if we fail we must 
not repine, but still go forward in duty. Our efforts have 
80 far been blessed.-^The general in chief will be here in 
6 



^6 rkLh OF • 

an hour. — He wishes to have a Te-Deum sung for our victo- 
ry over our oppressors. 

Pau. Alas ! how many bereaved hearts feel it to have 
been a costly victory ! — But will you remain till he comes ? 
Alex. Certainly : — but now, sweet friend, I must hasten 
to visit our suffering warriors, — My general, and my own 
|ieart, have commanded me to this duty, even before I look 
on the loved faces of my parents^ — and go you with me. — 
Remember, dearest, you are a daughter of Poland. 

Pau. (Putting her hand to her head.) Yes — yes ! I 
remember it all now. The joy of seeing you safe made 
pe for a moment forget — but I will brace my heart for the 
trial, and go to assist my dearest mother in succouring my 
noble father. 

Alex. Come then, — [they 'proceed towards the hospi- 
tah) — and I doubt not you will find him rejoicing in the 
sacrifice he has made for our country. 
They enter the hospital. — Martial music, heard first at a 
distance, approaches. — Enter general in chief, Skanet- 
sKi, attended by his staff of officers. — Citizens appear- 
here a7id there, following, looking out f^om houses, and 
assembling. 

General. (In a loud clear voce.) Comrades and citi- 
zens — the object of my present visit to the capital is, that 
we may prepare for a sacred and joyful thanksgiving for our 
late victory. I thought it proper to give my army brief time 
for rest, that with renewed strength they may return to the 
stiife, and we cannot spend the interval better than to thank 
Heaven for our success, so far — and to invoke a blessing on 
pur future efforts, trusting that our beloved country will 
speedily arise from her depression, and lift up her head 
among the nations. Go you, — (to an officer,) — and make 
essential arrangements for a solemn procession, and all oth- 
er observances suited to this glad and sacred celebration, 
and let the swords of our fallen heroes be deposited in the 
church, till their sons are able to gird them on for the de 



WARSAW. . 27 

fence of their country. — (Officer, with a bow, exit through 
a street leading farther into the city.— The General again 
leads forward his soldiers. — Martial music. — Exeunt in 
a direction opposite that of their entrance. 
SCENE II. — Room in the hospital. — Major Rowinski, 
pale and faint, half reclining on a couch, supported by 
his wife, who bends over him with an anxious counten- 
ance. — Pauline, kneeling, holds her father's hand, on 
which her headis bowed.—Physicians inattendance, with 
Alexis. — The voice of the Countess Camenski is heard 
from some adjoining apartment. 

Countess. This way my dear lord — this is the room to 
which we were directed. 

Count Cam. And say you that here we shall see our 
son? 

Coun. Yes we shall meet him here. With noble self-, 
denial he has come hither first, regarding the call of duty 
above even the voice of filial love.— [She enters, conducting 
her aged lord, who advances ivith trembling agitation.) 

Alex. [Stepping hastily towards them.) My parents ! — i 
(kneels before them. — Countess falls on his neck. — The 
old Count extending his arms, sinks on his knees, and 
looking upivard exclaims, in the trembling voice of age: 
"Blessings on my boy!" 

Coun. (Laying her hand on the head of Alexis.) — 
Receive, too, a mother's blessing! — (Alexis bows his head, 
rises, and supports his father to the couch o/* Major Row- 
inski. 

Countess Camenski. [Follovnng and extending her 
hand to Ro'winski's ivife, with deep sympathy of voice and 
manner.) — My beloved friend! lam grieved at this sight, — . 
{looking at Major Rowinski,)— I had hoped that rumor had 
out run the truth. 

Madame Rowinski. I am thankful that he lives! 
Count Cam. ( Standing before the couch, his arms folded 
over his breast, trembling and shocked at the condition of 



28 FA.LL OF 

his friend.) Dear veteran ! is thy course of glory so soon 
ended ? already lost to thy country m her cloudy and dark 
(]a,y ? — Woe is me ! — The green tree has fallen in its power 
and its pride, — and the aged and worthless trunk cumbers 
the ground! —[bends and embraces Rowinski, who opens 
his eyes and makes an effort to rise, but siiiks back and 
extends his hand to Camenski, faintly exclaiming :)—k]i 
dear and venerable friend!— are you here? 

Count Cam. [With trembling and joyful eagerness.)--- 
Ha? is there hope then? — I feared thy duty was all done. 

Major Row. (With momentary a7iimatio7i,)—l^o\ I 
must see the enemy once more flying before our banner. 
(Raising his arm.) — Here is yet a good right arm left for 
my country. 

Count Cam. Noble man ! Poland and posterity will 
long remember such a patriot — such a soldier! — Even the 
enemy must admire courage like thine. — ( Sound of a trum- 
pet — they all start and listen.) 

Alex. (After stepping hastily to a window, and look- 
ing for a moment ijitently.) — Rudolph has returned, in 
safety, from the pursuit. {All present utter exclamations 
of joy.) I see him with his brave hand. — I will meet him 
and conduct him hither. — [Exit in haste, 

Pau. Dearest mother ! — [embracing her) — dear father! 
there is yet joy for us — Rudolph is safe, and you live, my 
father. (Madam Rowinski looks upward with a serene 
smile, and with hands clasped, as in gratitude.) 

Major Row- Yes, my child, I live, and I am happy! 
My love for Poland triumphs -over pain and loss. Your 
brother is safe and victorious. Hark ! he comes. (All 
look towards the door with tenderness and animation. — 
Enter Rudolph and Alexis. Rudolph and his mother 
and sister rush to meet each other.) 

[^Curtain falls. 



WARSAW. 29 

ACT THE FOURTH. 

^'SCENE I. — Jl large ancient church, well lighted withtn, 
(^otherwise the stage dark,)inafine open space. Many 
houses seen in the distance, and some nearer; and 
standing about the church, and walking here and there, 
are see7i old inen and women, citizens^ some in mourn- 
ing. 

Jin old man speaks: — O ! my son ! — -he fell yesterday — = 
fbut patience old heart! it is all for Poland and Liberty. 

An old ivoman speaks: — Yes, we come hither to rejoice 
for victory; — but I cannot forget my husband — ray friend — > 
my protector. 

Another woman speaks:'— And I have two dear sons, 
^ead, or alive, on the battle-field. — Well ! I gave them to their 
^^ountry. — She had the best right. (A large old ivoman is 
seen slyly to hand a letter to a bad looking fellow in the 
dress of a page, who instantly glides behind the church. 
First faint sound of a bell heard.) 

Another speaker:— W^^xk ! they come {—{All gaze earnest- 
ly. — Bells now heard in different directions, and minute 
guns, and at intervals a trumpet sounds the note of victory. 
A procession enters with martial music,— Tune Marseilles 
Hymn.)— Order of procession: 

1st. Boys,— (in a uniform dress— not exactly military,) 
two and two, preceded by a small boy bearing a little flag, 
on which appears the Polish Eagle. — Each of the boys 
following bears the sword of some fallen Polish officer, to 
deposite in the church. — On each side v/alk two boys, — = 
(torch bearers.) 

Next, litde girls in white, with wreaths of laurel. 
Next, Catholic Bishop, in the full dress of his order. 
Next, six Priests in full dress. 

Then the General-in-chief, with an ofRcer on each side. 
Then Major Rowinski, with his left sleeve hanging loose.* 
and Count Camenski. 
7 



do FALL OF 

Then Captain Rudolph Rowinski, leuding on his compa^ 
ny of soldiers, in the midst of which, borne by a young 
officer, appears the Polish flag which Pauline had presented, 
somewhat torn, and spotted with blood. Then the Countess 
and Madame Kowinski, followed by many ladies of the 
citizens, all richly dressed — Then Alexis leading on his 
company. — At the entrance of the church the boys divide, 
(torches held an each side by the young torch-bearers,) — 
and the rest of the procession enters the church, followed 
lastly by the boys. After a short interval solemn music is 
heard in the church, instrumental, and accompanied by 
many voices, principally female. — When the tune is finish- 
ed, there is a brief profound silence. — Suddenly a bugle is 
heard from a distance. — Victory in the battle of Prague. 

The sound of the bugle having ceased, enter two young 
ladies in white, each bearing a torch in the right hand, and 
on the left arm a shield, on which appears the national der 
vice, of the ivhite Eagle; a small sword at the side, and 
a carabine, by a red cord, suspended from the shouder.— . 
Light and elegant armour on the breast, and on the head a 
helmet of the same description. Next Cecille, with a neat 
and delicate bugle, armour, sword &;c., as above mentioned, 
and designated as the musician by red tassels hanging from 
her helmet. Next Pauline, her rich dark ringlets falling 
over her shoulders, helmet, shield, <^c., and distingushed 
by a brilliant star on her breast. — As she enters, Cecille 
plays on the bugle. — Tune ''Then let the trumpet sound.'^ 

Pauline turns at the entrance, and beckoning to others, 
is immediately followed by many young ladies in the same 
description of dress, all with small elegant swords, etc. 
The procession is closed by two other female torch bearers, 
attired and armed in the same way. — As they advance 
slowly on the stage, music is again heard in the church, 
with many voices. The young ladies march round the 
stage, and at the entrance to the church, the torch bearers 
standing on each side, let the others pass in. — There is sud^ 



Warsaw. 1^1 

den silence in the church, as if from the influence of sui'- 
prise. — All enter, followed by the torch-bearers. — Instru* 
mental music in the church, heard again for a moment.— j- 
Scene slowly changes. 

SCENE II. — Room in the Governor's house. ^ A splendid 
parlour, richly furnished and decorated. — The Governor 
is seated alone near a table on which are writing mate- 
rials. 

Governor, tta! ha! — finely contrived 1*^— an ingenious 
spy of the Emperor, that! — to join this idle thanksgiving 
croud, as a feeble old woman, and so adroitly slip the lette? 
into the hand of one of my menials, who brought it to me 
before the first note of that unavailmg Te-Deum sounded 
the requiem of Polish liberty !— Vain braggarts ! their tri^ 
umph will soon end. — The desire of wealth and power 
makes the passion of my sonl. — This passion must be 
gratified! — -So the fates have ordained! — I must contrive 
to become king of Poland ! — Let me read again this pre- 
cious letter, for I think I shall act according to the wish the 
Emperor has expressed. It has not been in vain that I have 
made myself known to him. — (Takes a letter from his 
pocket and reads. — Count! remember you formerly pomis- 
ed that if Poland should ever agani revolt, you would be 
faithful to your sovereign Emperor. — Now is the time ! — 
Now is the time ! — Now you may raise yourself in my es* 
timation, and besides that, a million of Rubles shall be paid 
down to you on the instant. — All advantage, and authority, 
that you can possibly desire at my hand, shall be yours.— 
You will receive seasonable advice respecting the steps 
you are to take. 

By order of the Emperor, PASKEWITSH. 

Gov. ( Sloivly folding the letter and putting it into his 
pocket. Well ! — this is good — money and power are every 
thing in this world. — We all want a little more, and aim 
continually to climb \ng\\ex.--(Puts his hand to his head, 
Sfter a pause,)-— I must look out for myself.--Fools thej 



32? FALL OF 

were, who for a Tittle fair show of Patriotism, placed' me at 
the head of their noble capital. — Fools ! — they would not 
trust me, forsooth, with the command of the Army, — yet 
gave me the power to manage affairs for my own advantage. 
(Walks up and doivn the room.)— Will is Destiny '.—The 
spirit and the blood of my sire prevail ! — I will be King of 
Poland !— / will sell my country !— [Speaks in a loud and 
fiendish whisper. — He resumes his seat at the table, and 
after musing a few moments, writes, and then reads what 
he has written as follows :) — / wiU do what lean to pleaser 
my sovereign. — Henceforth I am a Russian. 

KROOKOVEEATSKI. 

Good ! — [Carefully folds the letter and puts it in his pock- 
et book, which he replaces in his pocket. — Enter a page in 
livery, boiving.) 

Page, a priest waits to speak to your excellency. 

Gov. Conduct him hither. — (Exit page, who after a 
few moments returns showing in the priest, and immedi- 
ately unthdraws.) 

Gov. (Rising to receive /w'm.J— Welcome ! veneraMe 
father. — What tidings ? 

Priest. (Bounng low.) Governor, your most obedi- 
ent! — Are we alone? — (Looking round the room. — An as- 
senting bow from, the Governor.)— Sir, I am a Russian 
cadet. 

Gov. Ha ! 

Priest. Disguised as a humble citizen I found my way 
to your servant, whom I met by the church, and recogniz- 
ed by his livery. — You doubtless received a letter from his 
hand? 

Gov. Yes, and I am prepared to reply that I will see 
what can be done. 

Priest. In my present disguise I have readily found my 
way to your presence.— I come from our General-in-chief, 
to say to you, in the name of the Emperor, that if you can 
manage to obtain the command from General Skanetski, or 



WARSAW. 33 

SO contrive that he shall be led to resign, and retire to the 
Capital; and if you will devise a method by which the com- 
mand may be secured to some person whom ive can trusty 
(you understand me,) — a man who will draw the army 
back to Warsaw — close up the city — place a guard at every 
toll gate— then draw the soldiers from the north east side, 
under a pretence of having discovered that an attack is to 
be made on the opposite quarter, so that we may meet with 
little or no resistance on that side,— we shall then obtain 
possession of the capital comparatively without bloodshed. 
I am bid to say that if thus you direct, and accomplish— 
the applause, and friendship of the Emperor are yours, and 
wealth and honors await you» 

Gov. (With a wicked smile.) Well! — Stratagem is al- 
lowable in war.— Tell your General that I have already 
thought much on this subject. The plan proposed meets 
my views. — All shall be so contrived that there can be no 
possible chance of failure, — [thoughtfully,)— Yes— I am 
sure we shall succed.— I will give Warsaw into his hands,— 
(rubbing his hands gleefully and looking down.) — It will 
be the best thing I can do for Poland.™ (^/i expression of 
contempt appears on the face of the disguised cadet.) — But 
here is a lettev,— (taking out his pocket book,) — that will 
satisfy the Emperor.— (Pne.s^ receives the letter.)— My re- 
spects to your venerable priestship, — (bowing with a look 
of mock gravity,) — and my best wishes for your safe return 
to your countrymen. — (Exit Priest.-- TVie Governor walks 
up and down the room.)—l have done well !— I have enrich^ 
ed myself J — And the senate dared to slight me ! — Aye ! and I 
have rewarded them!— They shall see and feel it !— Revenge ! 
(iri a powerful voice, stamping as he speaks.) 

[_Exit Governor, 

SCENE III. — A wood Scenery, painted to represent fine 

horses, with Polish lancers, mounted with their lances. 

Tents in the back ground, about which are seen Polish 

soldiers,-' Stacks of guns, and piles of cannon balls, with 



84 FALL OF 

small cannon here and therd mounted. — Two sentineh 

ivalk, one on each side of the tents. — Enter ALExis,fro7n 

the side of the stage. 

Alexis. Again have I been blessed with a sight of my 
loved native city — oi' my venerable parents, and [ivith ten- 
der animation,) my noble Pauline. — How difficult did I 
find it to dissuade her, and her gentle and high-souled com- 
panions — that young and lovely band, from following us to 
the defence of their country ! — Sweet patriots ! how ready 
to resign every comfort for their beloved land ! — But it is 
rather for the7n to give their tender regards to the consoling 
of bereaved wives and mothers ! — It is for them to weep over 
the memory of fallen fathers and brothers, and to await the 
i*eturn of wounded, suffering warriors, to restore them, by 
constant, generous attendance — or with angel faith and kind- 
ness to sooth the departing spirit, through its shadowy path, 
to a land of liberty and peace. — ^But I will hasten to join 
my noble soldiers — my brave and beloved countrymen. — 
(He passes rapidly towards the tents in the back ground. — 
A drum beats in that direction.— Several officers advance to 
meet him, — they salute, and shake hands, and all look 
earnestly, when different drums are heard in another direc- 
tion, and troops appear led on by Major Rowinski andjiis 
son, — the flag presented by Pauline carried in front. On 
the appearance of the troops, an officer commands the sol- 
diers already on the ground To arms.' — They take muskets 
from the stacks and form aline — Alexis passes before them 
for a hasty review, and commands them to present arms! 
as Major Rowinski, who is in advance^ reaches the spot. 
[A trumpet is heard, and a single cannon.) 

Alex. The General approaches.— (t^/yer a few moments 
enter General Skanetski ivith his staff of officers. — As he 
appears. Major Rgwinski addresses Rudolph f/??f/ Alexis.) 

Major Rowinski. Captains! join your companies. — 
(Rudolph takes his place on the right of his company — 
Alexis on the left of his — Major Rowinski takes his' sta- 



WARSAW. 35 

iion ill front of tlie line, facing tlie approiching General, 
whom the Major, Rudolph and Alexis, salute by raising 
their swords perpendicularly, and bringing the hilts in con^ 
tact 'vith their foreheads. — The General returns this salu- 
tation by raising bis hat. — He then draws his sword, and 
after regarding the Inie of troops for a few moments, with 
an appearance of approbation, he orders, Soldiers! shoulder 
arms! and then addresses them.) 

General. I km proud and happy in being able to say 
that the recent engagements with the enemy have proved 
you brave men.— You will always remember that you are 
the countrymen of Kosciosko, whose name can never die, 
and that Poniatowski in the late French campaign against 
Russia, fell by the side of the noble Napoleon, who boasted, 
with honest pride, of the bravery of his Polish allies.— The 
world will recognise you as the sons of those who won the 
confidence of that great man.— We shall soon again mee/ the 
enemy. — I know you are not willing to wait his approach. 
No ! let us show that we will meet him. The second bri- 
gade of the Artillery, and the third and fourth regiment of 
lancers, ready for action, await my orders at the entrance of 
the wood.— In one hour we make the attack.— Our country 
was, and will yet be, the land of the Free!— [Sound of the 
trumpet z/;i7/iOt«/.)— How I— What is that?— Support arms. 
Eater a Polish Lancer. 

Lancer. (Baisino- his right hand to his cap, and with 
his left presenting a letter.) From Warsaw.— (7^/ie Gen- 
eral eagerly receiving the letter, hastily unseals and reads 
it, appearing^much displeased. 

Gen. How is this?— look at i\m1-~{lianding the letter 
to Major Rowinski, who takes it and reads loith an air 
of dissatisfaction.— In the interval, the General address- 
es the other officers.)— The Governor requests me, by con- 
sent, he says, of the Senate, to draw back with the whole 
army into the city, under pretence that the enemy, or his 
iiUies, are known to be on their march to attack the Capital, 



36 FALL OF 

and that it is feared that our advance for its defence may be 
cut otT.— Our spies are out in every direction, and the reason 
given for the retreat of the army into the city, must be a 
onere pretence.— Why then the Governor's direction?--! know 
not.— If 1 must be thus fettered in my efforts to serve our 
country;— If I cannot, in accordance with my honest convic- 
tion of expedience, and duty, advance to meet the enemy, 
I will this moment resign my commission. — I should depart 
•from you with grief.— My affection embraces you all, and 
never would I leave you while Poland had an enemy to be 
conquered— but this order \— must it be obeyed? — No! I 
will no/ retreat !— I will lead my brave troops to the attack, 
or call them together to take leave of them. — Till now, I have 
been responsible for you all, to Heaven— to Poland— to the 
world, and to myself I— hnt I tremble hr the future! — Shall 
our country again be brought into bondage by weak council, 
or by vile treason ? — -May Heaven avert the evil ! — I wash 
-my hands of the foul crime '.--Mnjor Rowinski, take the 
command. I go to Warsaw, to inquire of the Senate, if it be 
indeed by their advice, and wish, that the Governor gives 
this strange order. — Why did we commence? — Why not 
finish our noble career? — What must the world think of us? 
— -that we are capricious fools ! — and all our poor widows, 
•^nd orphans ! — Is it for this that their protectors have been 
sacrificed? — for this — for nothing their dreadful wreck of 
happiness?— Shame!— Keep an eagle-eye about you my 
'brave fellows, and may Heaven be with you ! — I am off for 
Warsaw. — Follow me! — {addressing the Lancer. — Exeunt 
<jeneral, with his staff of officers, and the Lancer.) 

Alex, {To Major Rowinski.) We cannot suffer our 
brave leader to go without us. — Some covert evil may lurk 
about the city. — I feel a misgiving respectmg this order from 
the Governor. — Would it not be advisable that a detach- 
ment from our division follow the General to the city? 

Major Row. You are right.— Lead your men thither. 
I will accompany you, and we will take in our way, from 



WARSAW. 17 

their station at the entrance of the wood, a piquet of lan- 
cers. — You, — {addressing his son,) — will for the present 
remain with your followers, with vigilant eye and ear watch- 
ing every movement, and every sound, and you will be 
directed, by such circumstances as may be presented to your 
attention, to continue here, or to follow us to the Capital. 

Captain Rowinski. Yes, father, faithfully will I observe 
my duty, remembering that we watch for thee, and for Po- 
land. 

Major Row. Adieu then to my son, — (they shake 
hands,) — and his brave followers. — May our separation be 
but a short one. 

Alex. {Having met and shaken hands with Rudolph.) 
Attention ! — right about face — forward march. — {They leave 
the wood, to the tune '''■Downfall of Paris.'*'' ) 
SCENE IV.— City of Warsaw.-^The President of the 

Senate, (walking in a street of the city, with two other 

Senators,) speaks, as in reply to some information just 

given him. 

President. What is this strange rumor? — Say you that 
the General, — that brave and noble officer, is reported to 
have resigned his commission — and that the Governor has 
assumed the command? — I cannot comprehend this. 

One of the attending Senators, It seems, indeed, a mys- 
tery. — (Enter the General behind them, flushed with 
haste and anxiety.) 

General. Prince! — (They turn.) 

Pres. Ah ! my friend. — {Presents his hand to the Gen- 
eral, who grjzsping it, with a hurried^ hut courteous how, 
exchanges civilities with the other Se lators.) 

Gen. I have sought your highness with much anxiety. 
I had hoped to find the Senate in session, as I wished to lay 
before them a question which I consider of vital importance. 

Pres. We have just dispersed. — {They all listen with 
deep attention.) 

Gen. Have you seen the Governor within a few hours ? 
t 



38 FALL OF 

Pres. Not since yesterday — but why do you ask? 

Gen. Did he then make any special communication?— 
(At this instant the Governor enters, in great haste, with a 
soldier, who discovers the Polish uniform, as a large over- 
coat, in which he has been disguised, becomes a little open- 
ed in front.) 

Governor. (Hastily boiving with an appearance of . 
hurry and apprehension.) Prince ! it is time the council 
should meet. — Danger presses! — (turning to the soldier.)"^ 
Speak! 

Soldier. Two days ago I was sent out as a spy, to 
reconnoitre the position of the enemy, and last night, at a 
very late and dark hour, I overheard a conversation between 
some of the advanced guard, by which I discovered that a 
speedy attack on the city is meditated — nay, the enemy is 
by this time rapidly advancing. 

Pres. {To the other Senators.) Let us hasten to the 
senate room, and quickly summon our colleagues. — [Exeunt 
Senators.) 

Gen. (Sternly to the soldier.) I sent you out — not the 
Governor. — Why was this information first brought to 

him? 

Sol. General! with all possible dispatch I hastened to 
head quarters as you had ordered, but there learning that 
you had come to the city, I instantly mounted one of the 
fleetest coursers and came on without a moment's delay, 
and thinking I might find you with the governor, I repaired 
to his house. — Not knowing, then, what I had best do, I 
told him my errand, and we were hastening to the senate 
when we met you. On my way to the city, I passed a de- 
tachment of Infantry and Lancers, commanded by Major 
Rowinski and Captain Camenski. 

Gen. Ah ! — Well, as things now appear, I rejoice at this. 
Mount again your horse, my brave fellow, — fly to the camp, 
and charge the remainder of our army in that quarter, — 
charo-e them from me, to be upon the vigorous look out, 



WARSAW. 39 

ready at a moment's warning for instant action. — Exit Sol- 
dier ?*?i haste.) 

Gen. ( fVitfi repressed haughtiness, to the Governor, who 
during the conversation, had manifested impatience and 
agitation.) Will your Excellency be pleased to explain in 
what way you became possessed of the information, men- 
tioned in your letter, respecting an intended attack — infor- 
mation which ought to have reached me first — and through 
a different channel ? 

Gov. General ! this is not a time for unnecessary dis- 
course. — It is enough to say that my information was from 
a source to be relied on. — The enemy, it appears, is almost 
at our gates. — Why waste this little interval in vain words? 
I thought it prudent to recal you, and I am glad that at least 
in your oion person, you have obeyed my order — but you 
are tardy — very tardy in complying with that part of my 
direction requiring you to lead back your troops into the 
city.— We should make our means of defence as strong as 
possible.— The enemy has probably made greater prepara- 
tions for the attack than we are aware of. — Receiving no 
foreifi^n aid, toe have to struggle alone with a foe 'vhose 
numbers are so immense that they can lose a multitude^ 
and scarcely feel their loss. — How different is our case! — 
Now we are together at this trying crisis let us quickly con- 
sult, and promptly execute. — Listen! — [Martial music, 
with drum, heard first at a distance— approaches.) 

Gen. My brave troops are at hand! — Governor! I trust 
that all who bear the Polish name will be true to her sacred 
cause. — Oh sir! remember those brave soldiers who fell at 
Ostrolenka.-^Shall we not avenge their blood? — Can we— 
dare we, raise our faces to the bright Heaven, and look 
abroad upon this beautiful earth, and feel ourselves allied to 
the breathing and lovely world of nature, and humanity, if 
even in thought, or feeling, we betray, for a moment, that 
which, — {speaking with emotion and bitter feeling,) — has 
been gained by the loss of so much Polish blood? — Never 



40 FALL or 

can 1 be indifferent to the memory of those thrilling scenes 
of death, and of victory, of which I have been an eye-witness 
—through which I have passed, with my suffering coun- 
try. — {Music now very near, tune '•^Hunting March.''^ 

Gov. General] I wish you to station the greater part of 
your troops at the south-west entrance, and post your sen- 
tinels at the environs, particularly, of that direction. — With 
the soldiers of the Garrison, I will defend the opposite quar- 
ter, — but I wish to make the defence at the south-y^est, as 
strong as possible — for as we have several times repulsed 
the enemy from the opposite side, I judge the attack will 
now be made at that quarter, in the belief that the otlier is 
most powerfully fortified. 

Gen. {Thoughtfully.) It may be so. — Time will prove 
all. — (A battallion, preceded by a company of mounted Lan- 
cers, enters through one of the arched toll-gates, led by 
Major Rowinski on horseback, and Alexis on foot, with 
their swords drawn. — Alexis joins the Governor and Gen- 
eral, while the troops continue marching into the city, still 
headed by Major Rowinski, who leads them through other 
streets.— The officers of the different companies, as they 
pass the Governor and General, salute them by raising 
the hilts of their swords to their foreheads.) 

Gov. {To Alexis.) My brave friend I am happy to 
see you.^ — We must be prepared for a sudden attack on our 
city, and I am sure we may depend on the resolution, and 
bravery, of our soldiers, who have already so nobly distin- 
guished themselves.— The General will soon lead them to 
the post assigned for them. — (While he speaks, Pauline 
is seen coming down one of the less public streets, attended 
by Cecille. — When near enough to distinguish Alexis, 
she suddenly stops — after a moment — again advances, and 
speaks to her attendant.) 

Pauline. What means this? — Alexis returned! — the 
General !— the army !— Something, I fear, is wrong. — Oh ! 
it cannot be that the enemy has conquered ! — Shall the ty- 



WARSAW. 41 

rant contlniie to wo-sie— waste the remainder of Polish blood ? 
No ! there is our country's dear standard, waving on the 
pure air, in its pride, and its beauty. — What can have been 
the cause of this sudden return? 

Cecille. Dear lady, let us approach: — perhaps we shall 
hear. 

Pau. Yes go with me— I cannot endure this strange 
uncertainty- — (During this interval, the General and Alexis 
are seen talking aside, while the Governor looks, some- 
times at the troops, but more often, suspiciously, at them, as 
if he wished to break off their conference.- — At length ap- 
proaching them he takes out his snuff box and presents it. — 
At this moment Pauline and Cecille join them.) 

Pau. ( Speaking with haste and agitation.) Forgive 
me if I intrude, — but why — why have you all returned? 

Gen- Dear child !— Why ?— Ask the Governor! 

Gov. (Casting an angry glance at the General, and 
addressing Pauline with a severe manner.) Young lady ! 
go home and attend to your household duties. — It becojnes 
not such as you to interfere in public affairs. — (Pauline 
and Cecille look down disconcerted.) 

Alexis. (Aside, but indignantly.) Js our city — our 
country — in her dearest interests, entrusted to a man who, 
forgetting that he is a man, can thus reply to a question, 
induced by the best, and noblest feelings, and proposed by 
an innocent, a lovely, patriotic, and tender girl? — {^Soiind 
of a cannon — they start.) 

Alexis. (Hastily approaching Favline.) My Pauline! 
return home instantly — we apprehend an immediate attack 
on the city. — Go love ! and support your mother. 

Pau. Oh ! — is it so ! — Heaven keep thee, dear Alexis ! — 
(Exit hastily, with Cecille. — Sound of a cannon again^ 
and repeated at short intervals.) 

Gov. We must prepare for battle. — Officers! — to your 
posts.— General! -remember your duties, lie at the south- 
west entrance. — Let us do our best to save the city. — 



42 FALL OF 

(Governor walks rapidly towards the garrison, a large 
building represented in scenery, with a sentinel walking 
before it. — The General and Alexis now fall in with the 
troops as they continue marching into the city, and the 
music suddenly changes to the '•'-Turkish march in the 
laitle of Prague.'" — Sound of cannon. ----The troops 
gradually disappear. — After a short interval, the Govern- 
or is seen leading troops from the garrison, with music, 
tune ^''Civilian March,^^ quick step. — Exeunt in a north- 
easterly direction. — Strong shooting. — The stag^e is grad- 
ually darkened, while a drum is heard beating for at- 
tack. — One toll-gate is visible at the north-east quarter. — 
Shouts are heard outside the city, with a noise of axes. 
The gate is suddenly broken down, and Russian troops 
enter, en masse, and disperse in various parts of the 
city.— Storm bells ring in different directions, quick and 
loud.— Shrieks are heard, whilst women, some with infants 
and small children, are seen running in confusion and dis- 
may. — Here and there, in the distance, a house appears on 
fire — the sky begins to look red — this appearance increases, 
with much smoke. — Russian troops continue to pour into 
the city, Vi'ith more martial order.— The Russian trumpet 
sounds the note of victory.— A Polish company, led by 
Alexis, with his sword drawn, and followed by a few Lan- 
cers on foot, rush through a street from the south-west 
direction, to meet the enemy, among whom they fire their 
muskets.— General fighting.— A tremendous sound of can- 
non at a distance. — The Governor is suddenly seen from 
an opposite direction, leading, in quick step, a company of 
Poles, and his voice is heard loud and strong commanding 
their retreat.) 

Gov. Soldiers '.--Save yourselves !~Resistance is useless ! 
— quick! retreat! 

Alex. (Rushing upon the Governor.) Die Traitor !— 
(He stabs him— Governor falls. — At tlie instant a Russian 
officer rushes upon Alexis and stabs him— he falls.— The 



WARSAW. 43 

Poles who had been led by the Governor turn and join 
desperately in the light.— Both parties press mightily to the 
combat — tiie issue seems doubtful. — By turns, reluctantly 
retreating, and pressing on those who do not fall, gradually 
disappear in the cross streets.— The shouts become more and 
more distant. Pauline appears stealing cautiously towards 
the scene of the late battle,— Shuddering she looks search- 
ingly at the dead,^ and the dying, and still lightly and silent- 
ly advancing, she at length discovers Alexis. --Uttering a 
faint scream, she starts back a few steps and swoons. After 
a short interval, enter Madame Rowinski with Cecille.) 

Cec. Alas ! dearest Madame — where — where is she ? — 
Oh what a scene!— how quiet — and how dreadful! 

Madame Row. The lawless foe have pressed on in their 
work of destruction, I fear, to the more distant parts of the 
city!— but oh ! my child— my Pauline !— where are you ? — 
Cecille, say you that she came this way? 

Cec. Yes, dearest lady— I saw her turn that corner. — 
(In looking round she espies her white dress.)-'Oh !-^oh ! 
see her — see her Madame ! 

Madame Row. (Looking towards the place with an air 
of resolved firmness.) Calm yourself, my good girl:— (.^5 
she speaks she hastens towards Pauline, closely followed 
by Cecille.)— These are times when we must rouse every 
energy to endurance, and action. — Pauline! — my love! — 
(She kneels, and raising her daughter, rests her head up- 
on her bosom, and applies her salts, rubbing, at intervals, 
her temples and hands.— Cecili.ii wrings her hands and 
weeps.) — Pandine ! — my child ! — she revives ! — (Pauline 
shows signs of returning consciousness.) — Cecille assist 
me ! — (They raise Pauline and support her between them. 
After a few moments she raises her head— puts her hand to 
it— looks wildly at her mother, and Cecille— then towards 
Alexis, and pointing to the spot exclaims, "Look!— look! 
mother— he is dead!" her head sinks again on her mother's 
bosom. 



44 TXh^ OF 

Madame Row. (Looking towards Alexis.) Alas U^ 
alas ! there lies the bleeding cause of this poor child's suf- 
fering'.— Cecille let us remove her quickly from this dread- 
ful scene and send hither assistance. 

Cec. {^s they bear Favline from the stage.) Oh what 
will become of us all !— (They pass off the stage.— During 
the scene, distant sounds, and shouts, and at intervals a dis- 
charge of cannon and musketry, have been heard.— The 
sounds gradually become more indistinct and distant.— Re- 
enter Madame Rowinski, hastily, followed more slowly 
by four or five old men, citizens, who look round on the 
dreadful scene with an appearance of shuddering and grief.) 
Madame Row. (Bending sorrowfully over Alexis.) — 
Alas ! dear gallant youth !— Oh ! for his aged father — his gen- 
tle and noble mother ! — gone ! — lost so soon to thy bleeding 
country. — {She examines his pulse, and lays her hand on 
his forehead — then on his side.) — Ha! the current of life is 
not yet frozen at its source ! — his brave young heart still 
beats for Poland ! — {In joyful agitation she turns to the 
old citizens, who having moved on slowly, often stopping 
and looking round with horror, had just reached the spot.) 
Good friends raise him very gently, and bear him carefully 
to the hospital. — He is exhaused from loss of blood — pray 
be careful-— l trust he may be restored. — Alexis. 

Alex. {Making a feeble, but ineffectual, effort to raise 
his head speaking faintly.) — Mother of my Pauline ! — Oh ! 
why have you come hither? — (The old men bend to raise 
liim. — One of them speaks, "Oh! how many brave sons 
have fallen this day !" — They bear him slowly towards the 
hospital, which is seen at no great distance, followed close- 
ly by Madame Rowinski. — At intervals, on different parts 
of the stage, old men, and here and there a woman, young, 
or middle aged, enter and approach the slain, with evident 
intention to seek the body of some friend. — Now and then 
a woman appears at a distance, with an infant in her arms.— 
Old men, with Alexis, and Madame Rowinski, enter the 



WARSAW. 45 

hospital. — Count Camenski appears with a cane, tottering 
as he walks, and his thin white hair fallini^ loosely over his 
temples.--He looks round and exclaims,--(yet half muttering, 
with a low maniac langh,) — "There they lie ! — heaps of the 
noble and the beautiful ! — there they are, and Alexis is with 
them — And Poland is free! — ha! ha! — and I, an old man, 
have come to finish the glorious work: — [baring his loith- 
ered arm.) — This arm has yet blood belonging to its coun- 
try! — And my son, it seems, killed the Emperor, after an 
engagement of four hours!- — Alexis !•— Alexis!" — (Calling 
with a wild tremulous voice, as he totters off the stage at 
an opposite side from that of his entrance.- — The Russian 
General, and several of his ofiicers enter at the broken toll- 
gate.) 

Russian General. Major TumenzofT, you will instantly 
take your Cossacks from Praga, divide them into parties, 
and send them round the country, in different directions, to 
hunt up any of the rebels who may have concealed them- 
selves. — I hope this blow will prove a decisive one; — but 
we must make of it a thorough work. — (Exit Majoii Tu- 
MENzoFF.j— Major Zemanskow have you sent off the express 
as I directed ? 

Major Zemanskow. Yes General. — As soon as the city 
was in our hands our courier departed, under a guard of 
fifty Cossacks. 

(General and officers turn into a street and disappear.— 
An Officer of the Polish Lancers, and a Cossack, both on 
horseback, enter from opposite directions and meet. — ^They 
fight.' — The Cossack, disarmed, and wounded, falls from his 
horse. — The Polish Lancer seizes the bridle, and disappears, 
with both horses, through the toll-gate entrance. 

Major Rowinski. [.j^s he enters, iteming a corner, ivifh a 
few Poles, covered with dust and blood.) Oh ! here is 
another dreadful scene. — Yes ! and many of the enemy — 
poiverless-—dead! — as they lie side by side with their noble 
foe-men, show how the Poles have fought here this day.— • 
9 



46 FALL OF 

Come on, my comrades — few of us are left — but we may yet 
find some of our dispersed, surviving countrymen, waiting 
for an opportunity to rally, and return to the work, to yield 
but in death. — There is no Sentinel to be seen at that bro- 
ken entrance — let us go out that way. — {They go towards 
the gate.' — Drum beats without.)— \ld,\ there must be a de- 
tachment of the enemy approaching yet.— My brave fellows 
I will not give you to instant death.— We may yet serve 
the cause of Poland.— Let us enter this church, and there, 
rather than yield, defend our country's name to the last — 
the last man of us. — {They follow him with quick step to 
the church. — ^s the last tivo or three of them enter, they 
are espied by the leader of a coinpany of Russian Infantry y 
just then entering at the broken gate luay.) 

Captain of the Russian Infantry. Ah ha! we are just 
in time lo discover their hiding place. — (The church doors 
are hastily closed, and a noise of barricading is heard.)—' 
Corporal ! station two Sentinels at the gate, and follow me 
instantly with the compsiny. --{They follow their leader with 
quick step, and the two last entering are placed by a corpo- 
ral a! the gate.) 

Russian Capt. (^t a door of the church.) Rebels! it 
is your sovereign's officer who commands you to open these 
doors.— Quickly obey or we will storm the church. 

Major Row. (Within.) Try it! — Storm! — We ac- 
knowledge not your sovereign. 

Russian Capt. {To his men.) Fire through the win- 
dows force the doors. — (They fire into the windows — it is 

promptly returned- — Two or three Russians fall— five or six 
men rush forward with axes and break down a door. — The 
Polish soldiers rush out upon them. — General fighting.) 

Russian Capt. (Inapoiverfidvoice.) Stop! — I would 
speak \-{The skirmish gradually becomes less furious, and 
is at length suspended, and both parties turn toioards the 
speaker..) — You fight with one arm !™(^o Major Rowinski,) 
I will not fight with a man who has but one arm ! — I am 



WARSAW. 47 

instructed to pardon all Poles avIio will surrender, and ac- 
knowledge themselves subjects of the Emperor. — Why will 
you throw away your lives? 

Major Row. Accept your pardon ! — never! — 1 lost my 
arm by one of your tyranical countrymen, and with this 
that is left I am able to try your courage. I will not sur- 
render! — I accept no pardon from a tyrant who has destroy- 
ed my coiuitry !-r-I live a Pole, and a Pole I will die ! — 
Come on if you have courage to meet me. — (The Russian 
officer puts himself on his guard, and repulses Rowinski's 
sword. — -They fight—the Russian officer falls.— The fight 
becomes general. — The Poles are mastered. — The Russian 
soldiers turn upon Major Rowinski. — In a few moments, 
overpowered, he falls.) 

Major Row. I feel that I leave this world. — My coun- 
try ! — you are lost ! — and I die ! — (Solemn music. — Sudden- 
ly a drum is heard, and a Regiment of Russian soldiers, 
with the Russian flag, pour again into the city. — Drum and 
note of victory prolonged. — This scene lasts many minutes. 
While it still continues, the curtain falls.) 



ACT THE FIFTH. 

SCENE I. — The country. — A tavern — a turnpike roadj 
and here and there small houses, are represented. — Wo- 
men, old men, and little children, are seen in different 
parts of th'e road, all dejected — soine weeping. — Jin old 
man and woman appeared the door of the tavern. 
Old Man. Yes wife we are again slaves.— I wonder 

what the Emperor will do next.— (.^ drum is heard: — both 

look towards the road.) 

Old Woman. What is that coming?— Ah I see! what 

can they mean to do with the boys ? — Oh ! how can the poor 

things have done to be treated in this way ? 



48 FA.LL OF 

Old Man. I suppose they are taken from their parents, 
that they may never know what liberty means. 

Old Woman. AVhat !— take the young innocent creatures 
from their parents ! — O cruel and shameful! — [she weeps.) — 
Can all the nations look at this without pity? 

Old Man. There is not much pity for Poland. — See 
the poor things!— (Enter twenty or thirty boys, two and 
t'vo, fastened togetlier, by ropes, and marching slowly, and 
dejected, escorted by Cossacks. — The old woman enter ^ 
the cottage, and returns hastily with a basket in one handj 
and a large pitcher in the other.)— Yes give the poor chil- 
dren bread and milk. — Sorrowful marching, like that, is 
doubly grievous for such young captives. — It is bad enough 
when years have hardened us. 

Old Woman. (She goes out to the road, and stands 
before the h-ader of the Cossacks.) Where do you take 
the children?— what have they done? 

Cossack. We march them to Siberia,--and they may 
thank their stubborn parents for it:— and as to what they have 
done, old woman, — we mean to keep them /rom doing. — 
They have done nothing yet, but they are young vipers 
and we must draw their stings. 

Old Woman. Aye! you fear them, do you? — and well 
you may. — Can you — dare you look at the sun, and do this 
black deed?— but the sweet Heaven sees it all !— Kemember 
the word of an old woman [--Justice loill have her hour! 

Cos. Out of our way old hag. 

Old Woman. Stop! let me give them food to strengthen 
their poor young hearts. 

Cos. You shall give them nothing.— No punishment is 
too bad for the Poles.— Why did they rebel against our most 
powerful Emperor?— Off \\om:ii\\—( They pass.) 

Old Woman. ( Weeping and tooling after them.) Oh ! 
my poor dear country— to save thee I would lay down my 
old life!— (She returns to her door, and with her husband 
continues to look after them.— One of the boys speaks, sink- 



WARSAW. 49 

ing on his knees,)— "I am weak!— Oh my father !--0h mo- 
ther!— I shall — see you no more !"— (Falls and dies.— The 
Cossacks cut that part of the rope, leave the boy on the 
road, and march on with the others. WThey turn an angle of 
the road and disappear.) 

Old Woman. (Bitterlij.) That is a tender nation. 
Old Man. Posterii}^ will admire their kindness !— Come 
let us take the poor child in.— (They bear the body into the 
cottage. — Solemn music is heard from a single llute, tune 
PleyaVs Hijmn.) 

SCENE J I. — e5 wood. — Two large rocks, between which 
water is represented, and a rustic bridge thrown over 
the rocks. — ^t no great distance, is seen, very indis- 
tinctly, the entrance to a cavern, almost covered by thick 
underwood.—*Hills and valleys. —Scenery wildly roman- 
tic — In the hack ground a road ivinding up the side of 
a hill, and the procession of Polish boys, led by the Cos- 
sacks, marching up by thai' road.- — Enter a luoman and 
a little boy, travellers. 

Boy. Mother, shall we soon come where father is, and 
see him 1 

MoTPiER. We have along, weary journey before us. — 
Many — many days must we walk, to get into that dismal 
region where your poor father must pass his suffering life.— 
But I hope we shall join him soon after his arrival. — I re- 
joice, my child, that you may go with your tender mother, 
and not be driven by tyranical Cossacks, like the poor boys 
who passed us on the road, while I concealed you in the 
old hut.— Unhappy children!— They are going into the same 
cold, cheerless, bitter exile, and there is no pitying heart 
with them.— But my child you have walked far to day, and 
your litde body must be strengthened by food.— Sit down 
on this YO{'k.—(They sit doivn, and she takes bread from 
her basket.) 

Boy. mother! I wish I was a man.— I could so much 
better protect you on this journey. 



50 TALL OF 

MoTii. Poor, precious child !— All I once had a protec- 
tor!— And your brave brothers !— All— all gone !— but eat, my 
dear,— [giving him bread)— m^d let us hope.— Hope comes 
even to the miserable.— (Two Cossacks on horseback ap- 
pear, represented rather in the back ground.— By their mo- 
tions it seems they espy the woman and boy.— They alight, 
disappear in the wood, and after a few moments suddenly 
present themselves before the travellers, who start, and rise 
in terror.) 

1st Cossack. Good dame, we must have that boy. 

Moth. [Clasping the boy closely to her.) My Char- 
ley!— you shall not have him. — I can't let you have my 
Charley !— It w^ould break my heart to lose my Charley 1 

2d Cossack. Our order is to take all the boys we find. 
We must do our duty.— Comrade !—(^77ic^/ seize hold of 
the boy.) 

Moth. (Struggling with frantic energy to hold him.) 
Stop !— leave me my child !— O ! leave me the only one re- 
maining to console me in my long and cruel journey to meet 
my husband in Siberia.— ('Zoo^s upward.)— ! give me a 
mother's strength ! 

Cossacks. No— no, we must take him.— Give him up 
woman. 

Boy. [Clinging to his mother, ivlio holds him with 
desperate strength.) O! mother!— mother!— let us die, but 
do not let me leave you.— (In the struggle she retreats to- 
wards the bridge, and having reached it, with a sudden jerk 
she releases him from the Cossacks, springs to the edge, 
and triumphantly exclaiming, ^^Noiu take himP^ throws 
herself, with the boy in her arms, into the water. — The 
Cossacks look over a moment, in silent surprise, then burst 
into a brutal laugh.) 

1st Cos. Well I spose its all one how we get rid of the 
sarpent rebels. 

2nd Cos. Come then, see if we can hunt up any more 
work. — [Exeunt Cossacks.— Pauline appears from an en- 



WARSAW. 51 

trance near the bridge, in mourning, with her hair falling in 
disorder over her shoulders, and her face pale and wan, yet 
very lovely. She carries on her arm a basket of considera- 
able size, which appears full. — Having crossed the bridge, 
she looks round apprehensively, and then approaches the 
cavern, calling softly,)--" Rudolph '.--Rudolph '.—dear brother 
Rudolph— your sister '.-your own Pauline!"-( After a silence 
of a few moments Rudolph, pale and haggard, cautiously looks 
out from the cavern, and seeing his sister, springs forward, 
exclaiming with half suppressed feeling,) — "Pauline — my 
sweet kind sister '.—(They embrace.) — But why this sable 
garb ?-— O ! tell me of our parents — of Alexis — of all — what 
is their fate ? 

Pauline. Dearest Rudolph '.--I will tell you all, but be 
patient. — How--how are you?— here is refreshment for 
you and your brave companion. — [He takes the basket^ncl 
puts it on the ground, and they seat themselves on a rock.) 
Alas ! what a remnant of your gallant band ! — [she weeps.)— ^ 
But did he return in safety? 

Rudolph. Yes sweet sister — but I would not have al- 
lowed him to place his life in such jeopardy. — He left me 
to make known to you the place of my retreat, when, utterly 
overpowered by the fatigue of our dreadful conflict, I had 
sunk into a profound slumber. — It came upon me almost 
with the power of death. — Nature ivould rest. 

Pau. Poor brother ! — through what scenes of horror you 
have passed! — but is it indeed true that yourself, and your 
sin<{le companion, in this wild solitude, are all — all who 
remain of , that noble bard of volunteers who stood in the 
pride and the vigour of early manhood, flushed with antici- 
pated glory — with hearts filled with love for Poland? — 
'''How much life is deadP^ 

RuD. I am the sole survivor. — When from the sounds 
that reached our camp I was sure that an attack on the city 
had commenced, to remain at a distance was impossible. — 
My own feelings would not have sulleredit, and had I even 



52 FALL OF 

been dispose'! to wait for official instruction, the extreme 
impatience of my soldiers could not have been restrained. — 
Poor fellows !— how they shouted ^'Leadus o>2.'"— Most 
rapid was our march, yet when we approached the city it 
wafe already surrounded by the enemy, with an evident de- 
termination that no possible succour should reach the inhab- 
itants. — We attempted to force our way: — dreadful was the 
result. — The strength and number of the foe seemed every 
moment to increase, and as they fell before our desperate 
eli'orts, their constantly thinned ranks were as constantly 
filled. — My br;r'e followers! — 01 Pauline-can leverlorget 
that hour? — My noble soldiers! shouting, as they did, to 
the last, — "Victory or death!" 

Pau. How gloriously died these true sons of our dear 
unhappy country !™but oh my brother ! — how, amidst this 
dreadful carnage, — how did you escape? — ( Sheregardshim, 
listening with an appearance of intense feeling.) 

RuD. It seemed as if an invisible hand had covered me 
with a shield of immortality. — I stood, supported, (it must 
have been,) by a power not of this world, surrounded by 
destruction, and yet unhurt. — At length my horse was killed 
under me: — but for this my death must have been inevitable. 
Stunned by the fall I lay amidst a heap of the dead, and 
dying, — foe-men, and friends ; and when I returned to con- 
sciousness I knew by the dreadful sounds from the city- 
how horrible to my awakened ^ewseV—l knew , miAfelt, that 
our beautiful and beloved Warsaw was in the hands of her 
cruel, lawless foe \—l could not wish my bitterest enemy 
to know the agonies of that moment. — Hope was utterly ex- 
tinct, and a deadly, calm, unutterable despair, took posses- 
sion of my spirit. — Directly shouts of savage merriment, 
and the quick and heavy tramp of war horses came to my 
ear, — nearer — nearer, and as I lay, half covered by the dead, 
I descried a band of Cossacks, wild, and fierce for plunder, 
rushing and plunging over heaps of the fallen. — The sight 
roused the dormant energies ot my soui. — A voice seemed to 



WARSAW. 3S 

whisper in my inmost heart, ^^Thou mayst yet live for 
thy country.''^ — Thought, and memory, became more vivid, 
and a feeling of new life, and supernatural strength, 
rushed into, and pervaded, my physical and moral frame.-— 
By an instantaneous impulse I drew from my side pocket a 
loaded pistol, and with effectual aim discharged it at one of 
the horsemen, galloping towards the spot where I lay. — 
His powerful steed reared and plunged for a moment, and 
then stood quietly waiting to hear his master's voice, now 
silenced forever. — I quickly extricated myself, and not- 
withstanding a wound in my leg, received as I fell, I suc- 
ceeded in mounting, unobserved by the reckless and fero- 
cious beings, now absorbed in their sacrilegious work.— • 
Where myriads had lately stood all was now silent!— Shouts 
of wild laughter, and unmanly triumph, came faintly on the 
distance ; but amidst the dead hush of all things around me, 
I galloped on, scarce heeding whither, till my attention, 
alive to every sound, was arrested by a voice, calling me 
by name. — I halted, and looking round, perceived one of 
our Lancers, feebly emerging from the thick underwood, 
where, in the hope that his life might yet be devoted to his 
country, he had concealed himself after the desperate battle, 
in which he had been wounded, and his squadron, almost to 
a man, had fallen, or become prisoners. 

Pau. Poor— noble fellows ! — But Rudolph, how, in such 
a hopeless, desolate place, did you and your companion, 
both wounded, obtain succour? 

RuD. I assisted him to mount with me, and took him to 
a hut in our way, where a widowed dame, skillful in the 
use of simples, drest our wounds, and gave us refreshment. 
He then conducted me to this spot, which was well known 
to him, and here, with wild herbs and fruits, we have sus- 
tained life.— Poor fellow !— he is now in the happy forget- 
fulness of sleep. — We rest, and watch, by turns. — But my 
sister! I appreciate, most tenderly, the generous daring, 
which has brought you to me with this timely succour, yet 
10 



S4 WALL OF 

you must not again come hither. — The enterprise is fullor 
peril. — Besides, my remaining long here would be impos- 
sible. — The Russian cavalry is undoubtedly dispersed 
through the country, in search of any Poles who may have 
escaped, and who, if any there are, would so cheerfully 
gather, and rally around the fallen standard of their unhappy 
country; if by a last, and mighty effort, they might raise it 
from its dreadful prostration. — This, our triumphant enemy 
will be determined to prevent.^ — They know the Poles—- 
and every nerve will be exerted to discover, and to crush 
them. 

Pau. Alas ! my brother — where will you go ? 

RuD. We have not yet determined, but, if possible, I will 
inform you. — And now, Pauline, tell me of our friends. — 
(He listens with painful eagerness.) 

Pau. Alexis is slowly recovering from an almost mor- 
tal wound. — His dear old father did light! Rudolph. — He 
was seen engaged, with the wild energy of an unsettled mind, 
m single combat with an officer of the enemy, who took 
him; and he, and his lovely Countess, with many other la- 
dies, of high standing, who have been peculiarly active ia 
our country's cause, are now in prison! 

RuD. Shame ! — shame ! 

Pau. The noble Skanetski has gone into voluntary exiley 
and nearly all of the few survivors of those who defended 
0ur city in her extremity, have been banished to Siberia! 

RuD. Inglorious victory ! — branded by such base cow- 
ardice !— but Pauline tell me of our parents. -^{She weeps. )—■ 
Is it general distress only, which thus affects you?^ — do you 
mourn because Poland is dead? — Speak Pauline! — Have 
you aught to tell me of our mother? — of our father?' — What 
mean these tears ? — speak ! — my heart is firm to hear all ! 

Pau* Our mother lives, but her heart is broken {—(She 
weeps.) 

Hud*. And our father! 



WARSAW. 55 

Pau. He fell bravely ! — and his freed spirit has gone 
where the tyrant's persecution is known no more. 

Run. I was prepared for this ! — and I have no tears !— 
I cannot weep — and if I could, it -vould not ease a soldier's 
sufferings.— I feel— I feel it all— here !— here I— [Striking his 
breast.) 

Pau. Oh brother ! — dear brother ! 

RuD. Sweet sister ! — I must send you from me, 

Pau. I cannot leave you. 

RuD. Think, Pauline, of our mother. — Go to her. — = 
Surely you will be permitted to see her, even if, as I sus- 
pect, she too is a captive. — Humanity is not, I hope, quite 
*— quite dead. — Go to our mother, and if you can, speak to 
her yet of comfort — of hope. 

Pau. Alas ! what consolation can I give her, ignorant 
as we must both be of your deJRny ? 

RuD. For the love I bear you both, I shall guard my 
life, still dear to me for her sake, and for yours, my sister. 
Take with you this assurance, and with it comfort our dear 
— dear mother. — Come I will go with you, at least till you 
have crossed the bridge. 

Pau. (In terror.) No brother !— this must not be.— 
Your appearance with me, should I be noticed, would pro- 
bably be fatal to hoi\\:-'( seeing Rudolph about to speak 
earnestly)— n3.y—m'ge it not. — I cannot hear you. — I will 
not consent to this exposure of your safety. — O! farewell— 
dearest Rudolph! — You have done your duty to your coun- 
try — to all of us. — O ! take care of yourself, and though 
separated, and sorrowful, we will live in the hope that some 
blessed to-morrow is yet in store for us, when this dark and 
'bitter night of our adversity shall have passed.^ — Nay— nay- 
go with me you must not. — Farewell— farewell ! dearest 
Rudolph ! — Heaven guard and guide you !— ( They embrace.) 

Run. Farewell ! then, my own Pauline— but I charge 
you be wary in returning. — Why— why wall you not suffer 
me to guard you, at least a little way? 



5(^ FALL OF 

Pau. Name it not. — I will be w-^tchful.— Oh brother!— 
Once more! — (They embrace. — Exit Pauline in haste, 
weeping. — Plaintive music, — Fleuve du Tage. — Rudolph 
looks after her, and around, with a searching glance, and 
»n appearance of great anxiety, till, frequently turning a 
■watchful and apprehensive look on the surrounding scenery, 
gihe has crossed the bridge, and disappeared in the woods.— 
lie then places the basket within the cavern, returns to the 
entrance, walks out a few paces, again looks anxiously 
round, and at length disappears in the cavern.) 
Enter hastily from the back ground^ a Russian Officer, 

with several soldiers. — They approach the bridge and 

look round. 

Officer. Where can she be ? — I surely saw a girl de- 
•cendingthe hill.— She has, without doubt, furnished some 
of the concealed Poles with provisions— possibly that arch 
rebel, Alexis Camenski. — It was but last night, that most 
strangely, and notwithstanding his scarcely closed wounds, 
he escaped from the guard appointed to transport him to 
Siberia. — A price of one thousand rubles is now set upon 
his head, dead or alive. — Scour tbe woods soldiers !— Search 
out the girl's hiding place, and bring her before me. — I will 
watch on the bridge, that she may not escape.— (T'/ie sol- 
diers disappear in the ivoods, whilst the officer takes his 
station on the bridge, looking round watchfully.)— I will 
at least terrify her into a confession. — (During the interval 
low, quick music, (note of alar7n) — and as this dies away in 
the distance, a shout is heard, and the words ^^TVe have found 
the bird-'"' — Re-enter soldiers, with Pauline. — They place 
her before the officer.) 

Off. Who are you? — and where have you been? — 
Speak! — Where are they to whom you brought food? — 
speak ! — tell me all the truth, or you die ! 

Pau. Then I die ! 

Off. What ! — give up your young life so idly ! 

Pau. If life, and all that it can offer, must be bought by 



WARSAW. 57 

the price of my fidelity to my dear— dear country, I would 
rather die ! — I die with, and for, Poland ! 

Off. Girl !— fool !— tell us where they are concealed, and 
do not throw away your life. 

Pau. I have answered. 

Off. I would fain spare you — come, tell me all, and you 
shall be conducted safely wherever you may choose to go. 
Speak, girl !— you are too young— too beautiful, thus to die. — 
Speak! — (He points his sword at her breast.) 

Pau. [Kneeling, crossing her hands on her bosom, and 
looking upward.) Protect my mother ! — (A pistol is dis- 
charged by an unseen hand — the officer falls, and Alexis, 
pale and emaciated, with his left arm in a sling, rushes for- 
ward. — At the moment one of the soldiers discharges his 
musket, which misses him. — Another shoots Pauline: — she 
falls. — Rudolph and the Lancer appear at the instant.— 
The Russian soldiers, seeing them, fly,— They follow. — 
The pursued and pursuers are immediately lost to view 
in the mazes of the wood. — Alexis, utterly absorbed by the 
dying Pauline, sees nothing else, and kneeling with a look 
of distraction, raises and supports her on his bosom.) 

Alexis. Beloved — Oh beloved one ! — speak to me ! — 
Oh speak ! 

Pau. (Faintly.) My Alexis !~beloved in death !~grieve 
not.— I die for — Poland!— for Rudolph!— He is there, — 
{trying to point towards the cavern.)—L\vQ\—k\\ good 
hearts — will — sympathize — in our wrongs.— Mother !— my — 
mo— ther ! — Alexis ! — live ! — My spirit — will watch — beside 
you— for the dawn which— shall yet— arise !— Our country— 
will live again! — Endure life — that you — may watch — 
for the moment of her reviving~vitality.-0 Love \— stronger 
than Death \—{She raises his hand to her lips with dying 
energy — suddenly drops it, and dies. — Solemn music, tune 
Dame Blanche.) 

Alex. (After a pause.) And you are gone, sweet soul !~ 
andllive!— Do Hive?— am Ihere?— (^e lays her very 



58 FALL OF 

gently on the earth— slowly looks round, and up ward— then 
puts his hand to his head, and to his eyes.) — Is it a dream ? — 
Pauline ! — speak ! — Silent ! — my loved one ! — dead ! — Re- 
turn— Oh!— return '.---(His eye is fixed upward, and he 
stands unconcious of all belonging to earth.— Rudolph and 
the Lancer appear in the distant back ground, where they 
pass a few moments in evident consultation; then, as the 
Lancer walks a lew paces, and frequently looks about, as if 
to guard against surprise, Rudolph comes forward, panting 
from desperate exertion, and bearing with him the arms of 
the defeated Russian soldiers.) 

RuD. Alexis I—Brushing towards him as he speaks.) — 
But what ! — [starting vjildly as his eye rests on his dead 
sister,) — Oh Heaven ! — what a sight for me ! — [he throws 
down the muskets and casts himself heside Pauline. )-And 
has it come to this, sweet sister?— must even thy innocent 
blood be wasted?— Oh Poland !— Poland !— thy glory and 
4hy beauty have departed ! — and what remains for me ?--The 
voice of woe, and perpetual desolation ! — nothing more for 
me to do '.--but yes \— (starting to hisfeet,)—AlGx[s\ there 
is yet work for us. 

Alex. Return Sweet spirit! — [his gaze still fixed up- 
ward.) 

RuD. Poor soul! — my heart bleeds for thee, and for 
myself. — No more shall that bright and lovely spirit re-ani- 
mate this angel form, and weep, and suffer, for her country ! 
— But rouse thee — Oh my brother ! to noble endurance of 
this, thy last, and bitterest sorrow. — It seems to me 
that heaven has kept us alive, in the midst of death, to 
hear again the voice of our country. — Rouse thee Alexis ! — 
There will yet be work for us. 

Alex. Return Love !— return ! 

RuD. Come, come, Alexis ! — Alexis ! — By the love we 
bear her, — let us lay these dear remains in the bosom of 
her country— and away!— That beauteous spirit speaks to 
us I— away !—away /—Alexis !— there is no time to lose. 



WARSAW. 59^ 

—Let us fly, that at a distance we may watch for the mo- 
ment when the sun of Polish Liberty, breaking mightily 
through this black eclipse, will shine again — aye! gloriously! 
— and the unblinking eye of our own white Eagle will again 
fix its exulting gaze — no more to droop — its light quenched 
in blood! — Yes ! the Oppressors of our Land will forget 
their vigilance, and her dispersed sons will slowly gather — 
gather; and their little ones will hear of her wrongs, and 
ponder as they rise to manhood. — We will watch for that 
moment, and lead them on to Victory! — Alexis ! — if you 
love your country — Speak ! — He hears me not ! — (as if actua- 
ted by a sudden thought, Rudolph turns hastily away, and 
with rapid strides approaches the cavern, which he enters, 
re-appearing, almost instantly, with the rent and blood-spot- 
ted Flag which Pauline had presented to his company. He 
rushes back to Alexis, and holding the Flag up before him, 
with a low, emphatic voice, pronounces the name of Paul- 
ine ! Starting with a deep, heavy sigh, Alexis fixes his eye 
upon it, for a moment, with one step towards it -grasps, 
and embraces it, with intense emotion, and at length finds 
utterance.) 

Alex.-' -Pauline !™By this dear and holy relic, Poland 
imllyet live ! — will yet be Free I 

\jOurtain falls ^ 



ERRATA. 

Page 8, for strippling read stripling, 

«< 14, 8th line, for heat read heart. 

«< 17, for Ostralenka read Ostrolenka. 

« 19, for curtesy read courtesy, 

« 20, 1st line, read the. 

« 23, 8th line, xe^A. presently, 

« 43, 4th line, the sense is injured by a comma being: 
placed after the woxdfall instead of after the word on. 



